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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Stockton Croft, Founding Partner of Eagle Merchant Partners, to discuss his journey into private equity, the lessons learned from entrepreneurship, and why great businesses are ultimately built by great people.

Stockton reflects on his unconventional path from the University of Virginia to Wall Street, through consulting and operating roles, before taking the leap into entrepreneurship. He shares the highs and lows of buying and building his own company, the challenges of leading through adversity, and how those experiences ultimately shaped his philosophy as a private equity investor.

The conversation explores what separates successful founders from everyone else, why self-awareness matters when choosing your career path, and how veterans bring unique strengths to private equity-backed companies through leadership, discipline, and operational excellence.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Building a career in investment banking and private equity

• The transition from Wall Street to entrepreneurship

• Why taking calculated risks is essential for long-term success

• The "Groom, Jockey, or Horse" framework for thinking about your career

• Lessons learned from buying, operating, and growing a business

• Navigating failure, uncertainty, and business turnarounds

• Why resilience and grit separate exceptional leaders

• How veterans create value inside private equity portfolio companies

• The importance of process, structure, and operational discipline

• Why people, not spreadsheets, drive investment success

• How to evaluate leadership teams before making investment decisions

• The qualities private equity firms look for in CEOs

• Why great leaders attract talented people who want to follow them

• Mentorship, succession planning, and building organizations that outlast their founders

• Practical advice for professionals interested in private equity, entrepreneurship, and investing

Stockton also shares valuable lessons from nearly three decades of investing and operating businesses, explaining why his perspective evolved from focusing on financial analysis to recognizing that leadership and talent ultimately determine the success of every investment. His reflections on risk tolerance, self-awareness, and continuous learning offer practical guidance for anyone considering entrepreneurship or a career in private equity.

Whether you're preparing for military transition, interested in private equity or entrepreneurship, or simply looking to become a stronger leader, this episode offers timeless lessons on resilience, calculated risk-taking, leadership, and building organizations through great people.

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in private equity, entrepreneurship, executive leadership, and business.

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Dave Bellon, Managing Partner at Global Frontier Advisors L.P. and Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, to discuss his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, private capital, international investing, and building businesses in some of the world's most challenging markets.

Dave shares how his Marine Corps experience laid the foundation for a career defined by calculated risk-taking, continuous learning, and service beyond the uniform. After transitioning from the military, he pursued opportunities across private equity, investment banking, and international business before founding Global Frontier Advisors, where he helps connect investors with opportunities in critical minerals, natural resources, and emerging markets throughout Latin America.

The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of resilience when ideas don't work as planned, and why the best founders view failure as tuition rather than defeat. Dave also reflects on the challenges of military transition, the importance of finding purpose beyond a job title, and how veterans can leverage their leadership experience to create value in business while continuing to serve their communities.

Drawing from decades of experience in finance, entrepreneurship, and international investing, Dave explains why building relationships, framing problems correctly, and maintaining humility are often more important than having the perfect business plan. He also shares how his passion for farming and volunteer work with Toys for Tots has helped him maintain perspective while balancing the demands of business leadership.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Transitioning from the Marine Corps into entrepreneurship and private capital
• Lessons learned from building and growing businesses in emerging markets
• Why failure is often the best investment in future success
• How entrepreneurs should approach risk and uncertainty
• The importance of framing problems before trying to solve them
• Leadership lessons from military service that translate directly into business
• Building trusted relationships in private equity and international investing
• Why humility and curiosity are essential leadership traits
• The role of critical minerals and natural resources in the global economy
• Investing and operating in Latin American markets
• Finding purpose beyond titles, promotions, and financial success
• Balancing entrepreneurship, family, and personal fulfillment
• Why veterans are uniquely positioned to succeed in business and investing
• Continuing a life of service through mentorship, philanthropy, and community involvement
• Practical advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship or career transitions

Dave also shares thoughtful perspectives on identity after military service, the realities of betting on yourself as an entrepreneur, and why long-term success is built on resilience, integrity, and meaningful relationships. His insights provide valuable guidance for veterans, founders, investors, and professionals looking to build careers driven by both purpose and impact.

Whether you're preparing for military transition, exploring entrepreneurship, interested in private equity or international investing, or simply looking for timeless leadership lessons, this episode offers practical advice on embracing uncertainty, learning from failure, and creating opportunities that extend far beyond your own success.

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in business, entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, executive leadership, and life after service.

TheMilVet #TheMilVetPodcast #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #PrivateCapital #InternationalBusiness #Investing #CriticalMinerals #NaturalResources #MarineCorps #BusinessLeadership #Founder #EmergingMarkets #LeadershipDevelopment #VeteranCareers #Mentorship #LifeAfterService

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Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Todd Woodrick, President and Founder of Ceptor Technologies Corporation and a former U.S. Air Force Combat Control Officer, to discuss his remarkable journey from the battlefield to the forefront of defense technology, private equity, venture capital, and entrepreneurship.

Todd shares how a childhood inspired by Top Gun led him to the Air Force, only to have changing military needs redirect his career into Combat Control. After serving more than two decades in Air Force Special Operations, Todd transitioned into technology development at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory before building experience in private equity, venture capital, and defense manufacturing.

The conversation explores how military operators can successfully transition into the private sector, the realities of launching a technology company, and why understanding customers is far more important than simply building great technology. Todd also shares powerful lessons from uncovering a $98 million investment fraud early in his civilian career, reinforcing the importance of integrity, due diligence, and trusting but verifying the people you choose to work with.

Today, Todd is focused on building Ceptor Technologies Corporation, developing AI-enabled sensing systems that enhance situational awareness and help protect soldiers and Marines on tomorrow's battlefield. Drawing from decades of operational experience and defense innovation, he explains why the future of warfare will depend on accelerating decision-making through advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and computer vision.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Transitioning from Air Force Combat Control to entrepreneurship
• How military experience translates into technology leadership
• The future of AI-enabled defense technologies and battlefield awareness
• Lessons from Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and defense innovation
• Understanding private equity, venture capital, and defense investing
• Why customer discovery is the foundation of every successful startup
• The difference between building technology and building a business
• How defense acquisition works and what founders need to know before selling to the government
• Why veterans should understand funding, acquisition, and operational requirements before entering the defense market
• Lessons learned from uncovering investment fraud and the importance of due diligence
• Why "trust, but verify" is essential when evaluating career opportunities
• Choosing the right first job after military service
• The "Name, Title, or Salary" framework for navigating military transition
• Why founders should avoid burning bridges throughout their careers
• Building mission-driven companies with long-term purpose

Todd also shares practical advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, joining startups, or pursuing careers in private equity and venture capital. His insights on leadership, ethics, innovation, and lifelong learning provide a valuable roadmap for anyone looking to build a meaningful career after military service.

Whether you're preparing for military transition, launching a startup, exploring private equity or venture capital, or interested in the future of defense technology, this episode offers actionable lessons on leadership, customer discovery, integrity, and building businesses that solve real-world problems.

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in business, entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, and executive leadership.

TheMilVet #TheMilVetPodcast #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #ArtificialIntelligence #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Founder #Startup #DefenseInnovation #AirForce #SpecialOperations #CombatControl #ExecutiveLeadership #CustomerDiscovery #VeteranCareers #TechnologyLeadership

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes back Nick Lodestro, Executive Coach at The Military Veteran, entrepreneur, and former U.S. Marine Corps officer, for a candid conversation about leadership, entrepreneurship, private equity, and the personal evolution that comes after building and scaling a successful business.

He shares how he co-founded and scaled a veterinary hospital platform from a small startup into a thriving private equity-backed business through multiple recapitalizations, all while staying committed to one principle above all else: culture.

Nick explains why culture-not contracts, technology, or operational efficiencies-is the ultimate competitive advantage in any business. Drawing on lessons from the Marine Corps, he discusses how mission, values, and servant leadership shaped the company's growth strategy and helped differentiate it in an increasingly competitive industry.

The conversation also explores Nick's difficult decision to step away as CEO after realizing the demands of leadership were pulling him away from the life he wanted with his family. Through honest reflection, he discusses the identity shift from operator to advisor, the importance of setting boundaries, and how stepping into board leadership and executive coaching has given him a renewed sense of purpose.

Today, Nick serves as Executive Coach at The Military Veteran, helping veterans successfully transition into leadership roles within private equity-backed companies. He shares why executive coaching can dramatically improve the success of first-time CEOs, general managers, and senior executives navigating the fast-paced world of private equity.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why professional sales is one of the most valuable career experiences for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs
• How military leadership translates directly into business success
• Building a company where culture becomes the true competitive advantage
• Scaling a business without sacrificing mission, values, or people
• Lessons learned from multiple private equity recapitalizations
• How buy-and-build strategies work in private equity
• Hiring culture carriers and building leadership teams that can scale
• The importance of understanding founder motivations during acquisitions
• Common mistakes entrepreneurs make while growing their companies
• Why founder identity can become tied to the business-and how to navigate letting go
• The personal cost of leadership and recognizing when priorities need to change
• Balancing ambition, family, and long-term fulfillment
• Transitioning from CEO to board member and strategic advisor
• Why executive coaching accelerates success for veterans entering private equity-backed businesses
• How veterans can leverage their leadership experience in entrepreneurship and executive roles
• The importance of mentorship, networking, and continuous personal development
• Creating lasting impact by investing in the next generation of leaders

Nick also offers thoughtful perspectives on executive decision-making, scaling organizations through intentional leadership, and why the best leaders eventually shift from being the person with all the answers to empowering others to succeed. His reflections on leadership, family, and purpose provide valuable lessons for founders, executives, veterans, and anyone navigating major career transitions.

Whether you're preparing to leave military service, leading a growing company, pursuing entrepreneurship, or interested in private equity and executive leadership, this episode offers practical insights on building organizations that last, leading with purpose, and defining success on your own terms.

🔗 Learn more about The Military Veteran

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in business, entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, and executive leadership.

TheMilVet #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #ExecutiveCoaching #VeteranCareers #VeteranTransition #BusinessLeadership #CompanyCulture #SalesLeadership #FounderJourney #CEO #BoardLeadership #Mentorship #CareerDevelopment #VeteranSuccess #LifeAfterService #LeadershipDevelopment #PrivateCapital #ScalingBusinesses #ExecutiveCoach #MarineCorps

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with longtime friend and financial services veteran Brian Stengel to discuss his extraordinary journey from growing up in a Marine Corps family to becoming a successful entrepreneur, investment banker, and private equity investor in the technology sector.

Brian shares how being raised by a Marine Corps aviator shaped his perspective on leadership, adaptability, and embracing change. After graduating from the University of Virginia and earning his MBA in finance at the Wharton School, Brian built a 30-plus-year career on Wall Street, working with some of the world's leading investment banks before taking the leap into entrepreneurship and launching his own firms.

The conversation dives deep into the realities of building a business, navigating career setbacks, surviving market crashes, and leading through uncertainty. Brian also offers valuable insights into the world of private equity, venture capital, and technology investing, while sharing practical advice for veterans and professionals looking to transition into new industries or bet on themselves as entrepreneurs.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Growing up in a Marine Corps family and the lessons learned from military life
• How early influences shaped Brian's approach to leadership and business
• His journey from the University of Virginia to Wall Street and investment banking
• The decision to leave a successful career path and start his own company
• Lessons learned from entrepreneurship, failure, and resilience
• Navigating the dot-com boom, the 9/11 economic shock, and the financial crisis
• Building and advising high-growth technology companies and entrepreneurs
• The evolution of private equity, venture capital, and technology investing
• Why curiosity and continuous learning are critical in rapidly changing industries
• How networking creates opportunities and accelerates career transitions
• The importance of developing relationships and leveraging LinkedIn effectively
• Why veterans often possess the exact skills needed to succeed in finance and business
• The value of grit, perseverance, and embracing rejection as part of growth
• Practical advice for anyone considering entrepreneurship or a major career pivot
• Why your network truly becomes your net worth
• The importance of giving back, mentoring others, and building a legacy of service
• Finding purpose and fulfillment through lifelong learning and helping the next generation succeed

Brian also shares powerful lessons on navigating uncertainty, making difficult career decisions with incomplete information, and maintaining conviction in yourself during challenging times. Drawing from decades of experience in investment banking, private equity, and entrepreneurship, he offers candid advice on what it takes to build a meaningful career and why success is rarely a straight line.

Whether you're an active-duty service member preparing for transition, a veteran interested in private equity, venture capital, or entrepreneurship, or a professional seeking inspiration on leadership and resilience, this episode delivers actionable insights and timeless lessons on adaptability, networking, and betting on yourself.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet: TheMilVet

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in business, entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, and beyond.

TheMilVet #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #InvestmentBanking #WallStreet #Technology #TechLeadership #VeteranCareers #VeteranTransition #Networking #Mentorship #CareerDevelopment #Resilience #LeadershipDevelopment #Finance #VeteranSuccess #LifeAfterService #BusinessLeadership #StartupLeadership #PrivateCapital #VeteranCommunity

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Brooke Coburn, Co-Founder and Partner of Capitol Meridian Partners, to discuss his remarkable journey from growing up in rural upstate New York to spending 25 years at The Carlyle Group and ultimately launching his own private equity firm focused on the national security ecosystem.

Brooke shares how a single corporate finance class at Princeton sparked his interest in investing, why culture and mentorship shaped every major decision in his career, and what he learned helping build one of the world's most successful private equity firms during the industry's formative years.

The conversation explores the realities of building a career in private equity, the importance of finding the right people and culture, and why veterans are uniquely positioned to thrive as operators in private equity-backed businesses.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Brooke's unconventional path from rural New York to Princeton and Wall Street
• How he discovered private equity before it became the industry it is today
• What made The Carlyle Group's culture different and why it mattered
• The importance of mentorship and finding leaders who invest in your growth
• Why culture is one of the most important career decisions you'll ever make
• How private equity firms think about talent, leadership, and building companies
• The difference between investment roles and operating roles in private equity
• Why veterans often excel as operators inside PE-backed companies
• The realities of breaking into private equity and alternative pathways into the industry
• How great companies scale and why leadership requirements change as organizations grow
• The lessons learned from helping build Carlyle into a global investment platform
• Why Brooke decided to leave a highly successful career to launch Capitol Meridian Partners
• The importance of betting on yourself and avoiding future regrets
• Why grit, resilience, and continuous learning matter more than having all the answers
• The role of people, culture, and leadership in creating investment success

Brooke also shares practical advice for young professionals and transitioning veterans, emphasizing that careers are rarely linear, mentorship is invaluable, and the right culture can accelerate both personal and professional growth.

Whether you're interested in private equity, considering entrepreneurship, exploring career transitions, or simply looking to become a better leader, this episode offers valuable lessons on investing, leadership, and building a meaningful career.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet: TheMilVet

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in business, entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, and beyond.

TheMilVetPodcast #TheMilVet #PrivateEquity #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Culture #Mentorship #PrivateEquityCareers #NationalSecurity #VeteranCareers #ExecutiveLeadership #CareerDevelopment #InvestmentManagement #VeteranSuccess #LifeAfterService

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with leaders from the Alaska Adventure Project, a nonprofit based in Ketchikan, Alaska, that helps veterans reconnect through outdoor adventure, community, and shared experience. The conversation centers on how the organization supports healing and purpose for veterans through time in nature and small-group engagement.

Billy Boulton, the founder and president of Alaska Adventure Project, discusses his Marine Corps service, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and his transition out of the military after injury and PTSD-related struggles. He also describes how returning to Alaska and spending time commercial fishing and in the outdoors helped him rebuild a sense of purpose and inspired the creation of the nonprofit.

Darrin Isham, a retired Navy SEAL Master Chief Petty Officer, talks about his role in helping build and lead the organization, drawing on decades of military and veteran-nonprofit experience. He emphasizes the value of veteran connection, structured peer support, and environments where veterans can open up safely.

Will Picquelle, who helps with outreach and fundraising for the organization, offers the civilian perspective on supporting veterans and building community around the mission. His involvement reflects the broader team effort behind Alaska Adventure Project and its focus on service, healing, and long-term connection.

The episode explores the realities of running a nonprofit organization, including fundraising, operational planning, community support, and balancing mission impact with sustainable growth. Beau and the team dive into the unique challenges veterans face after leaving military service, including isolation, loss of identity, and finding renewed purpose in civilian life.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The challenges of transitioning out of military service
• How nature and outdoor adventure can support healing and mental wellness
• The impact of PTSD, TBI, and veteran isolation after service
• Why community and camaraderie remain critical after the military
• How Alaska Adventure Project was founded and evolved over time
• The importance of veteran-focused nonprofit organizations
• Lessons learned building and operating a mission-driven nonprofit
• How military leadership skills translate into entrepreneurship and nonprofit work
• Why small-group connection and alumni engagement matter for long-term support
• The role civilians can play in supporting the veteran community
• How shared experiences and storytelling help veterans reconnect and heal
• Why purpose, service, and belonging remain essential after the uniform comes off

Billy, Darren, and Will also share candid reflections on veteran suicide, the importance of maintaining lifelong connections, and the powerful transformation that can happen when veterans feel seen, supported, and surrounded by people who understand their experiences.

Whether you’re a veteran navigating transition, someone passionate about supporting the military community, or simply interested in stories of resilience, leadership, and healing, this episode offers an authentic and inspiring conversation about finding purpose after service and building community through shared experience.

🔗 Learn more about Alaska Adventure Project → Alaska Adventure Project
🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → TheMilVet

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #PTSD #MentalHealth #VeteranSupport #Leadership #Nonprofit #OutdoorTherapy #AdventureTherapy #NavySEAL #MarineCorps #Healing #Community #Purpose #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with retired Marine Corps Colonel Kevin Hudson to discuss his remarkable journey from infantry officer to Cobra pilot, and ultimately to executive leadership in the private sector at YAM Worldwide. After serving more than 26 years in the Marine Corps, Kevin made the transition into a completely new industry, helping build Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG) from a startup with fewer than 20 employees into a global company with more than 900 employees worldwide.

Kevin shares how military leadership, problem-solving, and team-building skills translated directly into the business world, despite having no prior experience in golf manufacturing. The conversation explores the realities of military transition, the importance of networking, finding the right post-service career path, and why veterans often bring more value to civilian organizations than they realize.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Kevin’s path from infantry officer to Marine Corps aviator and Cobra pilot
• What inspired him to join the Marine Corps and serve for more than two decades
• Lessons learned leading Marines in combat and throughout a military career
• The realities of transitioning from military service into the private sector
• How networking and professional relationships create career opportunities
• Why veterans often underestimate the business skills they have developed in uniform
• How military experience translates into operations, manufacturing, talent management, and executive leadership
• The importance of understanding budgets, personnel management, and organizational culture
• What it was like helping launch and scale a startup company from the ground floor
• The similarities between leading military units and leading high-growth businesses
• Why defining where you want to live and how you want to live is critical during transition
• Common fears veterans face when leaving the military and how to overcome them
• The value of mentorship and maintaining strong veteran networks
• How veterans can continue serving their communities after military retirement
• Finding purpose, balance, and fulfillment in life after the military

Kevin also reflects on his experience serving as a Marine Corps monitor, where he witnessed countless officers and enlisted Marines navigate transition. Drawing from those experiences, he offers practical advice for service members preparing for civilian careers and emphasizes that military veterans are uniquely equipped to tackle complex challenges, lead teams, and drive results in any industry.

Whether you're an active-duty service member planning your next chapter, a veteran exploring new opportunities, or a business leader interested in the value veterans bring to organizations, this episode offers actionable advice and powerful lessons on leadership, adaptability, and lifelong service.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations helping veterans succeed in business, entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, and beyond.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #MarineCorps #Leadership #VeteranCareers #VeteranTransition #ExecutiveLeadership #PXG #Entrepreneurship #OperationsLeadership #Manufacturing #VeteranNetworking #Mentorship #VeteranCommunity #BusinessLeadership #LifeAfterService #TheMilVet #MilitaryLeadership #CareerTransition #VeteranSuccess

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Meet Christopher Knapp, retired Navy officer, defense technology leader, and Chief Engagement Officer of the Uncrewed Warrior Foundation, in this insightful episode of TheMilVet Podcast. It is a conversation about unconventional career paths, military transition, purpose after service, and finding your place in the rapidly evolving world of defense technology.

Chris shares his remarkable journey from enlisting in the Navy as a journalist at 17 years old to becoming a Naval Flight Officer, serving in airborne command and control, supporting operations in Afghanistan, and ultimately leading uncrewed systems and innovation efforts within Naval Special Warfare.

Throughout the conversation, Chris reflects on the pivotal decisions, setbacks, and leadership lessons that shaped his career, including the moments when he chose to follow his instincts instead of the traditional career path.

In this episode, Chris opens up about:

• Going from Navy journalist to Naval Flight Officer through the Seaman-to-Admiral 21 program

• Overcoming failure in flight school and learning how to persevere through adversity

• Finding purpose and belonging while serving alongside Naval Special Warfare

• Leading innovation, science and technology, and uncrewed systems programs within the military

• Navigating the difficult reality of military promotion systems and career transitions

• Why he never planned to leave the Navy and how he adapted when circumstances changed

• Transitioning into the defense technology industry during the COVID era

• Building a career around autonomy, robotics, and the future of warfare at Gambit Defense

• Helping veterans transition into the uncrewed systems industry through the Uncrewed Warrior Foundation

• The importance of mentorship, community, and honest conversations during transition

This is an honest and inspiring discussion about embracing unconventional paths, adapting to change, and continuing to serve through leadership, innovation, and mentorship long after military service ends.

Whether you're a veteran preparing for transition, a defense professional interested in emerging technology, or someone navigating a major career change, this episode offers practical insights on resilience, growth, and creating impact in your next chapter.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

TheMilVetPodcast #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #NavyVeteran #DefenseTech #Autonomy #UncrewedSystems #Innovation #VeteranCommunity #CareerTransition #SpecialOperations #Mentorship #DefenseIndustry #Purpose #TheMilVet

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with Ryan Manion, CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, about leadership, loss, veteran transition, and finding purpose after service. TMF was founded by Ryan’s mother, Janet Manion, in honor of her son, Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who was killed in Iraq in 2007.

Ryan discusses how TMF has grown into a national organization that supports veterans and families of the fallen through programs centered on leadership, service, mentorship, and community engagement. The conversation also highlights TMF’s view that veterans continue to have an important role to play after leaving the military, and that service and community can help create that next chapter.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The emotional realities of transition after military service and loss
• How imposter syndrome impacts veterans and nonprofit leaders alike
• Ryan Manion’s journey from entrepreneur to nonprofit CEO
• Lessons learned leading and scaling a national nonprofit organization
• Why hiring smart people and building strong teams matters
• How military leadership skills translate into business and nonprofit leadership
• The importance of community, service, and purpose after the military
• How the Travis Manion Foundation supports veterans and families of the fallen
• The impact of programs like Character Does Matter and the 9/11 Heroes Run
• Why mentorship and youth engagement are critical to long-term community impact
• The connection between service, purpose, and veteran mental health
• How local veterans can create meaningful change in their own communities

Ryan also shares a pivotal story about attending a White House veterans roundtable early in her career and realizing that believing in herself was more important than seeking validation from others. Her reflections on leadership, confidence, and growth offer valuable lessons for veterans, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and anyone navigating major life transitions.

Whether you’re a veteran entering civilian life, someone passionate about supporting the military community, or a leader building purpose-driven organizations, this episode delivers an authentic conversation about resilience, identity, leadership, and continuing to serve beyond the uniform.

🔗 Learn more about the Travis Manion Foundation
🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #VeteranSupport #Nonprofit #MentalHealth #Purpose #Community #GoldStarFamily #TravisManionFoundation #TheMilVet #VeteranLeadership #Service #Entrepreneurship #ImposterSyndrome #VeteranCommunity #911HeroesRun #CharacterDoesMatter

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Clark Yuan, Founder and CEO of Stitch3D, United States Army Veteran, and West Point graduate. Clark shares his journey from growing up in a Taiwanese military family to serving as a Military Intelligence officer in the U.S. Army, and ultimately transitioning into entrepreneurship and defense tech innovation.

Clark discusses how his experiences in the military, particularly working with geospatial intelligence and fragmented data-sharing systems, inspired him to build Stitch3D, a platform designed to make spatial and geospatial data easier to access, visualize, and collaborate on. He explains how the company evolved from an Air Force-funded research initiative into a venture-backed commercial SaaS platform serving enterprise customers.

The conversation dives deep into the realities of military transition, the challenges of building a startup in the defense ecosystem, and the lessons learned navigating SBIR funding, venture capital, and dual-use technology markets. Clark offers an honest perspective on the gap between government R&D funding and long-term acquisition success, why many startups struggle in the defense space, and how founders can position themselves for sustainable growth.

Beau and Clark also discuss resilience, leadership, mentorship, and the importance of faith and personal grounding while navigating the pressures of entrepreneurship. Clark shares how finding his faith during the startup journey helped redefine success beyond business metrics and gave him perspective through the uncertainty of building a company.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How military operational problems can become startup opportunities
• Lessons learned transitioning from the Army into entrepreneurship
• The realities of SBIR/STTR funding and defense innovation programs
• Why many defense startups struggle to move from R&D to acquisition
• How venture capital and government funding can complement each other
• The importance of customer discovery and product-market fit
• Why commercial traction can be critical before pursuing government scale
• The value of veteran networks, mentorship, and community
• How faith, resilience, and purpose influence leadership and entrepreneurship
• What veterans should know before entering the startup or defense tech ecosystem

Clark also shares candid advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, including the importance of humility, adaptability, and building relationships with founders, investors, and operators who have already navigated the path.

Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, interested in defense technology, exploring venture-backed startups, or considering founding your own company, this episode delivers practical insights and real-world lessons from someone building at the intersection of national security and innovation.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → TheMilVet
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Startups #NationalSecurity #VentureCapital #SBIR #Innovation #FounderJourney #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with Tom Lynch, a Managing Partner at Iron Point Partners and former U.S. Navy JAG officer, about his path from military service into finance and private equity. Tom reflects on how his background shaped his leadership style, transition into investing, and career in real estate private equity.

Tom reflects on the influence of military service and Jesuit education in shaping his leadership philosophy, work ethic, and commitment to service. He discusses his unconventional path into finance - attending Dartmouth College and UVA Law, serving as a Navy criminal defense attorney, and later leveraging the GI Bill to earn a business degree while still on active duty. Tom offers candid insight into what it was like entering Wall Street as a nontraditional candidate in his late twenties with a military background and young family.

Throughout the episode, Tom emphasizes the value veterans bring to the private sector, including leadership, adaptability, teamwork, discipline, and judgment under pressure. He encourages transitioning service members to embrace their unique backgrounds rather than viewing themselves as “behind” their civilian peers, reminding listeners that careers are long and that military experience can become a lifelong differentiator.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Transitioning from military service into investment banking and private equity
• How veterans can leverage networking and mentorship to enter finance
• Why military leadership experience is a major competitive advantage
• The realities of entering Wall Street as a nontraditional candidate
• What family offices are and how they operate
• Lessons learned building and fundraising for private equity funds
• The evolution of real estate investing and digital infrastructure
• Why culture and teamwork matter in long-term career success
• How veterans can position themselves for leadership roles in business
• The importance of resilience, continuous learning, and long-term thinking

Tom also shares how service remains central to his life today through his involvement with organizations including Gonzaga College High School, the Washington Jesuit Academy, St. Matthew’s Cathedral, and the Yellow Ribbon Fund, which supports injured service members and their families navigating recovery and long-term care.

Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, exploring opportunities in private equity or finance, interested in entrepreneurship and investing, or simply looking for lessons on leadership and long-term career growth, this episode delivers practical advice and real-world perspective from someone who successfully navigated the path from military service to private equity leadership.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → TheMilVet
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #PrivateEquity #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Finance #RealEstate #InvestmentBanking #Entrepreneurship #VeteranCareers #Networking #FamilyOffice #DigitalInfrastructure #DataCenters #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Giles Walger, Founder of OODAx, and United States Marine Corps veteran. Giles shares how his transition from the Marine Corps to Amazon’s Pathways program - and later to AWS Mission Engineering - equipped him with the tools, mindset, and network needed to thrive in the private sector and ultimately launch his own company.

Giles dives into how his experience solving complex warfighter problems at AWS shaped his entrepreneurial path, giving him a “real-world MBA” in product-market fit, customer discovery, and navigating the complexities of government acquisition. He explains how OODAx helps emerging defense tech companies bridge the gap between innovation and the Department of Defense by accelerating access, aligning with mission needs, and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles.

The conversation also unpacks the realities of transitioning out of the military, the importance of starting over with humility, and why veterans are uniquely positioned to succeed in high-impact industries like defense tech and venture-backed startups.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How military experience translates into success in corporate and startup environments
• The “three C’s” (care, conviction, competence) and why they matter in any career
• What makes Amazon and AWS valuable stepping stones for veterans entering tech
• How to navigate the defense tech ecosystem and avoid common pitfalls
• The concept of “product-mission-system fit” and why it’s critical for government sales
• Key questions to evaluate startups before joining them
• How to break into defense tech, venture capital, or private equity-backed companies
• The importance of mentorship, networking, and paying it forward

Giles also shares practical resources - including podcasts, books, and strategies - for veterans looking to break into defense tech, along with candid advice on choosing the right company and building a meaningful post-service career.

Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, considering entrepreneurship, or looking to enter the defense innovation space, this episode offers actionable insights and a clear roadmap for success.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #CareerTransition #Leadership #Startups #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Networking #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Patrick J. Murphy, Executive Director of Hilco Global, former Congressman, and United States Army Veteran. Patrick shares his remarkable journey from a blue-collar upbringing in Philadelphia to the 82nd Airborne Division, deploying to Iraq, and later serving in Congress where he helped shape landmark legislation like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. He reflects on how his experiences in combat and public service fueled his desire to continue serving in new ways - eventually leading him into the private sector, venture capital, and his current role at Hilco Global.

The conversation dives deep into the realities of transition - from the uncertainty of leaving the military to the grind of running for office, and later, reinventing himself in business. Patrick shares candid insights on resilience, rejection, and the importance of staying mission-focused through every phase of life.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why “your network is your net worth” is more than just a phrase - it’s a career strategy
• How to embrace adversity (“embrace the suck”) and turn setbacks into momentum
• The skills veterans bring to leadership roles in government and business
• Lessons from serving in Congress and leading at the highest levels of the military
• How to successfully transition into private equity, venture capital, and the commercial sector
• The importance of communication and simplifying complex ideas
• Why continuous learning and self-improvement are essential for long-term success

Patrick also shares practical advice for veterans looking to break into new industries - emphasizing the power of mentorship, relationship-building, and taking initiative. His story is a testament to the idea that careers are rarely linear, and that purpose-driven leadership can evolve across multiple domains.

Whether you're transitioning out of the military, exploring public service, or looking to break into business and investing, this episode offers hard-earned wisdom, actionable advice, and inspiration from someone who has led on the battlefield, in Congress, and in the boardroom.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

TheMilVetPodcast #Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #Networking #PublicService #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #ServiceAfterService

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with Thomas Higginbotham, Founder and CEO of Kestrel and United States Air Force Veteran. Thomas shares how growing up in a multi-generational Air Force family, serving as a fighter pilot, and later working through a grueling flight training experience shaped his resilience and mission-driven mindset.

The conversation follows his journey from active duty to Stanford, then into roles at Google X and C3 AI, where he developed deep expertise in AI, enterprise systems, and defense technology. Thomas explains how he identified a scalable opportunity in defense software and ultimately founded Kestrel, while reflecting on the realities of becoming a founder, learning to sell, building conviction, navigating investor skepticism, and committing fully to a vision before the market fully existed.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How military experience can translate into startup leadership and technical innovation
• The importance of grit and resilience built through real-world adversity
• Why sensor orchestration is becoming a critical capability in modern defense systems
• How Stanford, Google X, and C3 AI shaped a founder’s mindset
• Lessons in enterprise sales, product-market fit, and government procurement
• Why conviction is essential when building a company before the market fully exists
• The role of culture fit in career transitions from military to civilian life
• How to think about “selling” as a core professional and leadership skill
• What it takes to leave a stable career and commit fully to a startup

Thomas also shares candid advice for aspiring founders, especially veterans, emphasizing the importance of conviction, preparation, and understanding the increasing competitiveness of the defense tech landscape.

Whether you're a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, a technologist interested in defense innovation, or someone navigating a major career transition, this episode delivers grounded insights on building, betting on yourself, and staying committed when the path forward is uncertain.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🎧 Subscribe for more conversations with veterans building in venture capital, private equity, and founder-led companies.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #AirForce #Startup #DefenseTech #ArtificialIntelligence #Entrepreneurship #Founders #Leadership #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Gregory Henson, founder of Cloud Veterans and former tech CEO, and Philip Lukaszonas, a U.S. Army veteran and manager of customer success at Ingram Micro to discuss how they are helping veterans build careers in cloud technology.

Greg and Philip share the origin story behind Cloud Veterans—a nonprofit initiative built to solve a major gap in the hiring pipeline: talented veterans with the right mindset but lacking access to training, certifications, and guidance to enter the tech industry. Drawing from Greg’s experience scaling a global Microsoft partner and Philip’s own challenging transition out of the military, they unpack how Cloud Veterans is bridging that gap through free, structured, and community-driven training.

The conversation dives into the realities many veterans face when transitioning, especially those from non-technical or combat arms backgrounds, and how programs like this are designed to meet them exactly where they are. From foundational certifications to advanced cloud pathways, Cloud Veterans provides not just training, but mentorship, accountability, and a lifelong support network.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Breaking into cloud and tech careers with zero prior experience
• Translating military skills like discipline, adaptability, and problem-solving into the corporate world
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and intimidation around tech roles
• The importance of community, mentorship, and accountability in career transitions
• How hands-on labs, certifications, and real-world prep accelerate job readiness
• Leveraging AI tools to enhance job search, preparation, and long-term career growth
• Why tech careers, especially in cloud, remain resilient in the age of AI

Greg and Philip also share their bold vision for scaling Cloud Veterans to serve thousands of veterans annually, while maintaining a 100% free, volunteer-driven model supported by corporate sponsors. Their mission is clear: empower veterans and their spouses with the tools, training, and confidence needed to thrive in tech, and continue serving in new ways beyond the uniform.

Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran exploring new career paths, or someone looking to break into tech, this episode offers practical guidance, inspiration, and a clear roadmap to get started.

🔗 Learn more about Cloud Veterans → cloudveterans.org
🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #TechCareers #CloudComputing #Leadership #CareerGrowth #Reskilling #AI #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer about career transitions, leadership in high-pressure environments, and building a path beyond government service. Fleischer reflects on how he moved from college with no clear plan to Capitol Hill and then to the White House, where he served as press secretary to President George W. Bush during the September 11 attacks.

The conversation then shifts to Ari’s transition out of government after more than two decades of service. He breaks down how he navigated burnout, leveraged his network, and built a thriving career in communications consulting, advising major corporations and sports organizations during moments of crisis and public scrutiny.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How careers can evolve unexpectedly and why staying open to opportunity matters
• The power of networking (and why it’s really about relationships, not transactions)
• Lessons in leadership, loyalty, and accountability from the White House
• Navigating career transitions, burnout, and life after high-pressure roles
• Building a consulting career by identifying and owning your unique skill set
• Why specificity, not generality, is key when marketing yourself professionally
• How veterans can translate military experience into real-world career success

Ari also shares powerful perspectives on gratitude, service, and why veterans have a distinct advantage in the workforce; highlighting the discipline, resilience, and reliability that set them apart.

Whether you're transitioning out of the military, exploring a career pivot, or looking to sharpen your professional edge, this episode delivers practical advice, real-world lessons, and inspiration from one of the most recognizable voices in modern political communications.

🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.#Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #Networking #Consulting #PublicRelations #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Randy Mullen, Founder & CEO of Sightline Ventures and a former U.S. Air Force Officer, to explore his journey from military service to building a mission-driven company in the defense tech space.

Randy shares how his upbringing near Edwards Air Force Base first sparked his interest in the military, eventually leading him into Air Force contracting and acquisitions. With experience spanning global deployments, the National Reconnaissance Office, and the Education with Industry program at Ball Aerospace, he developed a deep understanding of how the Department of Defense operates and how innovation reaches the warfighter.

Throughout the conversation, Randy offers a candid look at one of the hardest decisions of his life: stepping away from a promising military career and command opportunity to prioritize his family. He opens up about the emotional weight of that transition, the uncertainty that followed, and how a series of unexpected pivots ultimately led him to entrepreneurship.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Choosing family over career and navigating the tension that comes with it
• Embracing uncertainty and adapting when plans fall apart
• Translating military experience into entrepreneurship and business development
• Building a company with purpose while continuing to serve beyond the uniform
• Taking calculated risks and betting on yourself during transition
• Reinventing yourself to stay challenged, relevant, and growing
• Investing in mentorship, personal development, and long-term vision

Randy also shares how Sightline Ventures is helping early-stage defense tech companies bridge the gap between innovation and implementation, ensuring critical technologies get into the hands of those who need them most. His story is a powerful reminder that while transition may be messy and unpredictable, it can also open doors to impact, growth, and renewed purpose.

Whether you’re navigating your own transition, exploring entrepreneurship, or looking to lead with greater intention, this episode delivers practical insight and real-world perspective to help you move forward with confidence.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #Startups #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Mike Gaffney, Naval Academy graduate, former nuclear-trained submarine officer, and now CEO of Cellphire Therapeutics, Inc., to unpack a career that spans undersea operations, top-tier consulting, private equity, and biotech leadership.

Mike shares how growing up around his father’s Naval Academy classmates and mentors, including a future vice admiral, shaped his decision to attend the Academy, not for prestige, but for values, character, and leadership. An unlikely nuclear submariner who majored in English and later earned a graduate degree in politics, he explains how the process of elimination, the end of the Cold War, and a few hard realities (like getting seasick and wearing glasses) pushed him beneath the surface and into the Navy’s nuclear community.

Mike then walks through his pivot from consulting into the investment world with Allied Capital, where he ultimately became the firm’s de facto healthcare lead. He breaks down how the private equity landscape has transformed since the late ’90s, from a smaller, less crowded field to today’s hyper-competitive market where deal flow, specialization, and relationships are everything and why that shift pushed him toward building companies rather than just backing them.

Throughout the conversation, Mike offers practical insight on:

• Leveraging your network the right way; focusing on adding value, reciprocity, and long-term relationships rather than transactional asks
• Translating military leadership into commercial settings by obsessing over team quality, clarity of purpose, and execution discipline
• Surviving “getting punched in the face” in business through resilience, problem solving, and resourcefulness forged in uniform
• Understanding how modern private equity and growth capital really work; why deal flow, specialization, and operating value creation matter more than ever
• Stepping into a new leadership role with humility, curiosity, and a deliberate approach to listening before changing things
• Shaping culture intentionally so strategy doesn’t just live on a slide, but shows up in daily behaviors and decisions

For veterans interested in private equity, venture capital, or executive roles in high-growth companies, Mike offers grounded advice: this is a brutally competitive space where many people want the same jobs, but trusted introductions, demonstrated grit, and a reputation for solving hard problems can differentiate you. He emphasizes that trust and likeability aren’t built in one conversation or a single coffee, they compound over time through consistent behavior, follow-through, and showing up for others.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Healthcare #Biotech #Resilience #Networking #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Matthew R. Brooks, Founder and Principal of Second Echelon Capital, Colonel, US Air Force (Retired) and U.S. Air Force Academy graduate to explore his journey from the cockpit to entrepreneurship, and now to investing in fellow veterans.

A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Matt shares how a single touchdown catch against Notre Dame became a lifelong lesson in teamwork, humility, and mission-first leadership. He reflects on his Air Force career, commanding the 5th Bomb Wing, and the values that shaped him; integrity, service, and excellence.

But Matt’s story doesn’t stop at retirement.

After leaving active duty, he stepped into the world of entrepreneurship, acquiring and scaling his family’s hotel supply company before successfully exiting. Now, as founder of Second Echelon Capital, he invests in veteran-owned small businesses, helping other service members navigate the path of entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA).

Throughout the conversation, Matt dives into:

• The realities of military transition; what he expected vs. what surprised him
• Entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) and why buying a business can be a powerful path for veterans
• The sleepless nights, financial pressure, and hands-on leadership required to run a small business
• Why community matters, and how organizations like Entrepreneurs' Organization help founders avoid going it alone
• Translating military leadership into building systems, processes, and high-performing teams
• Aligning your commercial pursuits with your personal passions
• The importance of mentorship, financial readiness, and learning when to say “no”

Matt also shares practical resources including books, podcasts, and conferences for veterans interested in business ownership, along with candid advice about preparing your family and finances before taking the entrepreneurial leap.

Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran considering buying a business, or a leader looking to invest with purpose, this episode offers a real-world look at what it takes to move from leading airmen to leading companies, and from operator to investor.

🔗 Connect with Matt Brooks → secondecheloncapital.com
🔗 Email → matthew@secondecheloncapital.com
🔗 Follow on LinkedIn → Matthew R. Brooks
🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #AirForce #Entrepreneurship #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #VeteranOwned #SmallBusiness #Investing #ETA #PrivateEquity #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Sean Patterson, Founder of CrossGen AI and Chief Operations Officer at StartGuides, a former U.S. Navy submarine officer, and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Sean reflects on how the foundation of service, rooted in discipline, accountability, and commitment to something greater than yourself, continues to influence how he leads, makes decisions, and approaches new challenges. Drawing from both high-pressure moments and everyday leadership responsibilities, he shares how clarity of values becomes a compass when circumstances are uncertain.

Throughout the conversation, Sean offers an honest look at transition; what it feels like to step away from a structured military environment and into a world where you must define your own direction. He speaks candidly about identity shifts, professional reinvention, and the internal work required to grow beyond previous titles or roles.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Anchoring your decisions in core values during seasons of change
• Translating military leadership into business, entrepreneurship, and community impact
• Navigating the emotional and professional realities of transition
• Letting go of ego while maintaining high performance standards
• Building resilience through discomfort, responsibility, and ownership
• Redefining success beyond rank, position, or external validation
• Leading with humility while embracing long-term vision

Sean also discusses the importance of mentorship, surrounding yourself with the right people, and continuously refining your mindset as responsibilities increase. His story highlights that growth doesn’t stop when service ends, it evolves.

Whether you’re preparing to transition, currently navigating change, or striving to lead at a higher level, this episode delivers grounded wisdom and practical insight to help you move forward with clarity and conviction.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #MilitaryTransition #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #Mentorship #MilitaryToCivilian #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Lindsey Chrismon, co-founder and CEO of Oply, former U.S. Army aviation officer, AH-64 Apache pilot, and the first woman in U.S. Army history to fly the AH-6 Little Bird in the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and Harvard Business School, Lindsey shares her journey from an 11-year-old determined to attend West Point to becoming a venture-backed tech founder building in the AI space.

Lindsey reflects on the mentors who shaped her leadership style, the intensity of serving in the 160th SOAR, and the pivotal decision to transition from a high-performing military career into entrepreneurship. She speaks candidly about betting on herself, walking away from traditional post-MBA paths like consulting, and committing fully to building something from the ground up.

Throughout the conversation, Lindsey breaks down how she and her husband scaled their first company before launching Oply—an AI-powered home intelligence platform designed to help homeowners proactively manage, maintain, and protect their most valuable asset.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• What it takes to become a “first” in elite military organizations
• The power of mentorship in accelerating performance and confidence
• Making the stay-or-go decision at a critical military career inflection point
• Why committing fully—without a backup plan—matters in entrepreneurship
• The realities of raising venture capital and keeping a clean cap table
• How failure as a founder can increase long-term earning potential
• Building AI responsibly while navigating evolving policy and regulation
• Translating special operations leadership into startup execution

Lindsey also discusses the importance of embracing risk, overcoming fear of failure, and staying mission-focused during uncertainty—whether in combat aviation or venture-backed startups. Her story is a testament to disciplined ambition, bold decision-making, and the belief that service is a foundation—not a ceiling.

Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship, navigating transition, or leading in high-stakes environments, this episode delivers practical insight and inspiration for veterans ready to build what’s next.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
📲 Learn more about Oply → Download “Oply” on the App Store or Google Play
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #MilitaryTransition #Entrepreneurship #AI #WomenInDefense #SpecialOperations #StartupLife #Resilience #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General Ryan Heritage—a career infantry officer who made a rare and impactful pivot into cyberspace, and information warfare.

From watching The Sands of Iwo Jima as a fourth grader in Massachusetts to commanding at the regimental level and later leading Marine Corps Forces Cyber Command, Ryan’s journey reflects both deep-rooted commitment to service and an exceptional ability to evolve with the battlefield.

Ryan shares what it was like to step into the cyber domain with no technical background—and how curiosity, humility, and disciplined leadership allowed him to thrive. He offers a candid look at modern warfare, the rapid evolution of AI and cyber capabilities, and why simplifying complex technology for warfighters is critical to maintaining decision advantage.

The conversation also dives deep into Ryan’s recent transition from active duty to building a portfolio career in the private sector. He reflects honestly on missteps, sleepless nights, networking lessons, and the mindset shift required to move from military command to business development.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Leading in highly technical environments without being the technical expert
• Translating infantry and combat leadership into cyberspace operations
• The importance of curiosity and continuous learning in emerging domains
• Why networking—not resumes—is the real engine of post-service opportunity
• Managing identity shifts after retirement from senior military leadership
• Approaching transition with humility, research, and value-driven conversations
• Understanding why military rank does not automatically equate to corporate roles

Ryan also discusses lessons from Ukraine’s rapidly evolving battlefield, the urgency of AI adoption, and why strategy—not bureaucracy—must drive innovation at scale. He offers practical advice for veterans navigating transition, emphasizing preparation, intentional relationship-building, and disciplined follow-through.

Whether you’re an infantry officer curious about cyber, a senior leader preparing to transition, or a veteran exploring opportunities in defense tech and venture capital, this episode delivers both strategic perspective and grounded, practical advice.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #MilitaryTransition #CyberWarfare #DefenseTech #AI #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Michelle “MACE” Curran, U.S. Air Force veteran, former Thunderbird pilot, and author, to explore her extraordinary journey from fighter jets to inspiring audiences around the world. MACE shares how her time in the Air Force—culminating as one of the few female Thunderbird pilots—shaped her approach to leadership, overcoming fear, and finding purpose in high-pressure environments.

Throughout the conversation, MACE dives into the lessons military veterans can bring to civilian life, including resilience, risk management, and mission-focused thinking, while offering practical advice for transitioning into entrepreneurship, speaking, and storytelling. She also discusses the power of mentorship, networking, and leveraging your unique experiences to make an impact beyond the military.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Translating military skills like discipline, focus, and courage into entrepreneurial and civilian success
• Navigating career transitions after service, including choosing purpose over the “easy path”
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and fear while pursuing bold, unconventional goals
• Building a personal brand and using platforms like LinkedIn to tell your story and create opportunities
• Inspiring the next generation through children’s books and adult storytelling
• The value of mentorship, authentic networking, and giving back to create long-term impact
• Lessons from near-miss experiences, high-stakes decision-making, and leadership under pressure

MACE also shares insights from her books—Upside Down Dreams, What’s Your Call Sign, and The Flip Side: How to Invert Your Perspective and Turn Fear into Your Superpower—and how she translates lessons from the cockpit into actionable strategies for anyone facing fear, self-doubt, or career pivots. Whether you’re a transitioning veteran, aspiring leader, or someone ready to chase big dreams, this episode provides inspiration, practical guidance, and a roadmap for turning challenges into opportunities.

🔗 Connect with MACE → macecurran.com
🔗 Follow on Instagram → @mace_curran
🔗 Follow on LinkedIn → Michelle “MACE” Curran
🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #AirForce #Leadership #CareerTransition #Entrepreneurship #PublicSpeaking #Books #Motivation #Mentorship #Networking #MilitaryToCivilian #Resilience #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Josh Welle, U.S. Navy veteran, former officer, and Vice President, Global Head of Cybersecurity Portfolio for Capgemini. Josh shares his journey from serving in the Navy to navigating leadership roles at top companies like Capgemini and beyond, bridging the gap between military service and the corporate landscape.

Throughout the conversation, Josh dives into the lessons military veterans can bring to the civilian workforce, including resilience, mission focus, and teamwork, while offering practical advice for transitioning into tech, cybersecurity, and corporate roles. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building networks, and showing up with a positive attitude and willingness to contribute beyond your job description.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How military skills—discipline, resilience, and mission focus—translate directly into corporate and tech success
• Practical steps for veterans to break into cybersecurity, tech, and consulting, even without formal experience
• The power of networking as a “team of teams” approach rather than a one-way ask
• How veterans can stand out in corporate environments through initiative, collaboration, and commitment
• Josh’s personal work with veterans, aspiring cadets, and underrepresented communities to help them succeed in corporate America
• Balancing work, life, and service-driven passions while remaining grounded in purpose and family

Josh also shares insights into corporate culture, veteran-friendly companies, and how to leverage your military mindset to thrive in civilian careers. Whether you’re a transitioning veteran or someone supporting the veteran community, this episode provides actionable strategies, inspiration, and real-world guidance for taking the next step after service.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Navy #Leadership #CareerTransition #Cybersecurity #TechCareers #CorporateAmerica #Mentorship #Networking #MilitaryToTech #Resilience #TeamOfTeams #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Jacob “Jake” Wilmes, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, former scout sniper, self-taught coder, AI and machine learning engineer, and founder of Hire Calling.

Jake shares his journey from serving in elite combat roles to navigating the complexities of civilian life, learning to code from scratch, and breaking into the tech industry with no formal background. He candidly discusses the challenges of transitioning from the military, the frustrations veterans face when applying to civilian jobs, and how perseverance, mentorship, and creative problem-solving shaped his path from startup roles to launching his own company.

Throughout the conversation, Jake walks through his non-linear career: learning coding and AI on his own, interning and working at tech startups, tackling diverse roles from software development to hardware troubleshooting, earning a master’s degree in data science to formalize his credentials, and ultimately founding Hire Calling — a platform designed to make the hiring process more transparent and engaging for both job seekers and employers.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How military problem-solving skills translate to entrepreneurship, tech, and startup environments
• The realities of learning coding, AI, and machine learning from scratch while pivoting into civilian careers
• Why veterans often face “application black holes” and what can be done to bridge the gap
• How Hire Calling links job applications to nonprofit donations to increase transparency and trust
• The challenges of raising capital, selling your vision to investors, and building a product pre-launch
• Lessons learned about mentorship, persistence, and creative networking in both tech and entrepreneurship

Jake also shares practical advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, from leveraging your military skills, building networks, and navigating funding, to understanding startup life and market opportunities.

If you’re a veteran exploring technology, AI, startups, or your next mission after service, this episode delivers actionable insights, inspiring stories, and real-world guidance from someone who’s navigated the transition, learned to code from the ground up, and is now building a platform to help other veterans succeed.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #MarineCorps #Leadership #CareerTransition #Entrepreneurship #TechStartups #AI #MachineLearning #VeteranFounders #MilitaryToTech #StartupLife #ServiceAfterService #Resilience #HireCalling #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with John Price, US Army Special Forces veteran, former Senate staffer, private equity operator, and founder of HighGround.

John shares his journey from a college student at the University of Colorado Boulder whose life changed on September 11th, to joining the Army through the 18X Special Forces program, serving alongside elite teammates, and later navigating a challenging transition out of the military. He offers a candid look at the realities of leaving service without a clear plan, the identity shift veterans face, and how lessons from Special Forces — discipline, grit, planning, and trust in your compass — translate powerfully into business, private equity, and entrepreneurship.

Throughout the conversation, John walks through his non-linear civilian career: earning his MBA, working in Fortune 500 leadership roles, advising and fixing PE-backed portfolio companies, serving in the U.S. Senate on AI and acquisition reform, leading corporate development at Deloitte, and ultimately betting on himself to build a software company focused on making government markets easier to understand and navigate.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why military leadership and resilience provide an edge in private equity, venture capital, and founder roles
• The hard truths of transitioning from the military — and why having a plan matters more than the plan itself
• How to overcome imposter syndrome and compete confidently in elite business and academic environments
• Why understanding culture matters more than trying to “change” it in large organizations
• How private equity and government contracting really work — and the gaps veterans must close to succeed
• What it’s actually like to pitch investors, hear repeated “no’s,” and keep moving forward as a founder
• Why education, mentorship, and “putting in the reps” are critical before taking on senior leadership roles
• How veterans should think about entrepreneurship as both a sprint and a marathon

John also shares practical, hard-earned advice for veterans considering the founder path — from building the right team and doing deep market homework, to knowing which parts of military culture to bring forward and which to leave behind.

If you’re a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, government-focused technology, or simply trying to chart your next mission after service, this episode delivers grounded perspective, real talk, and actionable guidance from someone who’s lived every phase of the journey.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #SpecialForces #Leadership #CareerTransition #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #GovTech #DefenseTech #StartupFounders #VeteranEntrepreneurs #ServiceAfterService #Resilience #MilVet #TheMilVetPodcast

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Raj Shah, Air National Guard F-16 pilot and Managing Partner at Shield Capital.

Raj shares his non-linear journey from growing up as the son of Indian immigrants in Georgia, to serving as a citizen-soldier in the Air National Guard, to working at McKinsey, founding multiple cybersecurity companies, and now investing in early-stage startups shaping the future of warfare and national security.

Throughout the conversation, Raj offers a candid look at what it really takes to succeed as a founder and investor — grit, resilience, team-first leadership, and a deep understanding of customer pain points — and why veterans are uniquely positioned to thrive in high-risk, high-impact environments.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why military leadership, grit, and mission-focus translate powerfully into startups, venture capital, and tech
• Raj’s path from McKinsey to founding venture-backed cybersecurity companies — and the lessons learned from early failures and pivots
• How Silicon Valley views risk, failure, and second chances — and why learning fast matters more than perfection
• What venture capitalists actually look for when evaluating founders, teams, markets, and technology
• Why having the right co-founder and team matter more than the initial idea
• How veterans can break into tech, startups, and VC through networking, warm introductions, and mentorship
• Veteran-focused organizations and programs that help bridge the military-to-tech transition
• Why defense tech is booming right now — and how private-sector innovation is reshaping modern warfare

Raj also shares practical advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, operating roles, or investing — including how to choose the right role, the right team, and the right mission-driven work that aligns with long-term purpose.

If you’re a veteran exploring career transitions, entrepreneurship, defense technology, venture capital, or simply looking to understand how military experience can unlock opportunities in high-growth industries, this episode delivers actionable insights and hard-earned wisdom from someone who has successfully navigated all of them.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #DefenseTech #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #CyberSecurity #StartupFounders #VetSuccess #Innovation #NationalSecurity #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #Networking #Resilience #VeteranEntrepreneurs

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with fellow Marine Patrick D. Nugent — former Regimental Commander at The Citadel, former Marine Corps infantry officer, Speaker, Adaptive Athlete, and Veteran Advocate — to share one of the most powerful and non-linear transition stories you’ll hear.

Patrick walks through his journey from growing up in Cleveland with a deep family legacy of service, to choosing The Citadel, commissioning into the Marine Corps infantry, and preparing for a long-term military career. That path was abruptly changed by a catastrophic training accident that left him with life-altering injuries, forced medical retirement, and an uncertain future.

What followed is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and betting on yourself.

Patrick shares how he navigated recovery at Walter Reed, confronted the reality of leaving the Marine Corps, and redefined his mission — ultimately earning admission to The Wharton School for his MBA and Harvard Kennedy School for his MPA. He then transitioned into management consulting at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he applied military leadership, grit, and team-first mindset in one of the most demanding professional environments.

Throughout the conversation, Patrick offers candid insight into what consulting actually looks like day-to-day, how veterans add unique value in high-pressure business roles, and why embracing discomfort and learning velocity matters more than having a “perfect” resume.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Patrick’s path from The Citadel and Marine Corps infantry to Wharton, Harvard, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
• How a life-altering injury forced an unexpected but transformative career pivot
• What management consulting really looks like — including private equity diligence and federal work
• Why veterans excel in consulting through resilience, composure, and team leadership
• How to avoid “self-selecting out” of elite opportunities and let others tell you no
• The power of veteran and non-veteran mentorship during career transitions
• Using fitness, discipline, and structure to sustain performance after trauma

Patrick also shares hard-earned advice for transitioning veterans: aim higher than you think possible, lean on the veteran network, give back early, and never underestimate how transferable military leadership truly is.

If you’re a veteran navigating transition, considering consulting, business school, public service, or simply looking for proof that reinvention is possible after setbacks — this episode delivers inspiration, honesty, and actionable guidance from someone who has lived it.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #MarineCorps #ManagementConsulting #BCG #MBA #Wharton #Harvard #InvictusGames #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #VeteranSuccess #TheMilVetPodcast

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with fellow Marine Sean Bielat — former Marine Corps officer, McKinsey consultant, political candidate, private equity executive, and Managing Partner at Oscar Mike Venture Partners — to share one of the most non-linear and inspiring transition stories you’ll hear.

Sean walks through his journey from serving as a Marine Corps officer to consulting at McKinsey, running defense robotics at iRobot, launching his own company Endeavor Robotics, and investing in international defense technology in Europe. He discusses how he navigated the complexities of corporate America, private equity, and international markets, all while keeping mission and purpose at the forefront.

Throughout the conversation, Sean offers candid insight into the unique challenges veterans face when transitioning into business, entrepreneurship, and investing — and how the leadership lessons from the military can be leveraged to build teams, scale companies, and drive impact.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Sean’s path from Marine Corps officer to McKinsey, iRobot, and private equity
• How to carve out and run a successful business after leaving a large corporation
• Building high-performing teams, company culture, and trust as a CEO
• Lessons in investing, entrepreneurship, and strategic advising in U.S. and European defense markets
• Navigating complex international markets with limited capital and local knowledge
• The importance of mission, purpose, and unity in professional and global contexts
• How veterans can leverage operational and leadership experience to succeed in tech, venture, and private equity

Sean also shares advice for transitioning veterans and professionals: seek continuous education, take operational roles early, embrace non-linear career paths, and focus on where you want to feel fulfilled rather than a rigid job title.

If you’re a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, private equity, defense tech, or seeking purpose-driven work after service — this episode delivers inspiration, practical guidance, and a masterclass in leveraging military leadership to make an impact.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #MarineCorps #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #DefenseTech #VentureCapital #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Clint Alanis — retired Marine Corps officer, special operations veteran, and Co-Founder and COO of Smack Technologies Inc — to explore one of the most authentic and non-linear veteran transition journeys you’ll hear.

Clint shares his experience moving from a high-stakes military career into the world of entrepreneurship and defense technology, reflecting on the challenges of leaving active duty, finding purpose outside the service, and leveraging his operational experience to solve complex problems in the civilian sector.

Throughout the conversation, Clint discusses:

• His decision to retire for family reasons and navigating life after leaving active duty
• The realities of transitioning from the military into the business and startup world
• How he leveraged his network, mentorship, and programs like the Honor Foundation to understand the commercial landscape
• Founding Smack Technologies and creating AI/ML solutions that give commanders decision dominance in the modern kill chain
• The importance of trust, relationships, and understanding your transferable skills in business
• Insights on what it takes to succeed in defense tech, private equity, and entrepreneurship without a traditional MBA

Listeners will gain actionable guidance on:

• Making strategic, family-oriented decisions during career transitions
• Understanding how military leadership skills translate into business and tech entrepreneurship
• Navigating the startup world, fundraising, and building high-performing teams
• Identifying problems worth solving and taking calculated risks in new industries
• How veterans can carve out meaningful post-service careers while maintaining purpose and impact

Clint also shares candid advice for veterans exploring entrepreneurship or the defense tech space: build relationships, trust your instincts, research relentlessly, and pursue what energizes you rather than following conventional paths.

If you’re a veteran seeking insight into entrepreneurship, defense technology, or purposeful career transitions after service, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
🔗 Follow on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #MarineCorps #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #StartupLife #VentureCapital #MilitaryTransition #TheMilVetPodcast

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Michael Martin, United States Naval Academy graduate, former Navy SEAL, global hedge fund leader, and now Co-Founder & President USA of Tiberius Aerospace, a cutting-edge defense technology company.

Michael shares his remarkable journey from the Seal Teams, to the high-pressure world of Wall Street, to becoming a key figure in Defense Tech 3.0. He discusses how the values and mindset forged in Naval Special Warfare shaped his ability to thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments — and how building authentic, long-term relationships became the foundation for every chapter of his career.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How elite military experience translates into high-performance roles in finance, technology, and entrepreneurship
• Building trust-based networks that create opportunities years — or decades — later
• Lessons from the trading floor: risk, decisiveness, humility, and “long-term greedy” relationship building
• Navigating setbacks, including being fired, and how to turn career disruption into reinvention
• The shift from finance to defense tech and why mission-driven work matters
• What Defense 3.0 looks like — and why disruptive, globally connected technology companies are reshaping modern security
• Balancing leadership, family, community service, and purpose, including Michael’s ongoing commitment to the SEAL community and veteran support organizations

Michael also shares how Tiberius is revolutionizing ramjet and propulsion technology, attracting global interest, and preparing to scale rapidly — and why he believes now is the most critical moment for innovative defense solutions.

If you’re a veteran exploring career transitions, high-performance industries, tech leadership, or mission-driven entrepreneurship, this conversation offers hard-won wisdom, actionable insight, and inspiration from someone who has reinvented himself across three demanding fields.

Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #NavySEALs #CareerTransition #FinanceCareers #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #VetSuccess #Innovation #HedgeFunds #Defense30 #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #Networking #Resilience #VeteranFounders

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Shawn Robertson — Founder and Leadership Coach at Eternal Lessons and a transitioning US Army SOF Veteran. Shawn shares his remarkable journey from West Point to leading high-performing teams in the Army, to discovering his true passion for coaching and leadership development. He discusses how military experience shaped his ability to identify potential in others, develop elite performers, and translate those lessons into meaningful impact in the civilian world.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How elite military leadership experience translates into coaching, organizational development, and executive impact
• The process of recognizing and cultivating talent, even in high-performing teams
• Lessons from graduate school, West Point, and special operations that shaped his coaching philosophy
• The challenges and mindset shifts involved in transitioning from military to civilian life
• How to harness untapped potential in individuals and organizations through his “Dormant 40” framework
• The story behind Eternal Lessons and its mission to turn experience into actionable, lifelong lessons
• Insights into writing his upcoming book, “Activate” A Counterintuitive Guide to Unlocking Team Potential designed to guide leaders to unlock human potential (Summer 2026)

Whether you’re a veteran navigating a career transition, a leader looking to elevate your team, or someone interested in human capital and organizational psychology, this conversation offers actionable wisdom, inspiration, and a unique perspective on leadership and potential.

Subscribe to TheMilVet Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #ArmyOfficers #CareerTransition #Coaching #HighPerformanceTeams #OrganizationalPsychology #HumanPotential #VeteranFounders #EternalLessons #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #ExecutiveCoaching #Activate

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Tyler Temple — U.S. Navy veteran, former damage controlman, and Founder/CEO of Pollentia Inc.

Tyler shares his journey from growing up fascinated by boats and spending time on ferries, to joining the Navy and gaining hands-on experience in damage control and ship operations, to identifying a gap in the boating industry and founding a company focused on safety, accessibility, and cutting-edge technology. He discusses how his Navy experience shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and inspired the development of his AI-driven co-captain system — a centralized intelligence tool designed to make boating safer and simpler for everyone.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How early experiences and military service can ignite a lifelong passion and career path
• The importance of embracing failure, learning fast, and using setbacks to innovate
• How to identify gaps in a market and create a differentiated product that is difficult to replicate
• Practical strategies for entrepreneurship, including planning, building the right team, and understanding your ecosystem
• The value of humility, curiosity, and listening to your customers in driving success
• Lessons on transitioning from the military to a tech-focused business environment

Tyler also shares his vision for the future of marine technology and the goal of becoming the primary source for marine intelligence, while keeping boating accessible, safe, and user-friendly.

If you’re a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, technology, or looking to transition into business after service, this conversation offers actionable advice, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at building a startup from the ground up.

Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
Follow us on LinkedIn → @TheMilVet

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #Navy #Entrepreneurship #TechStartup #CareerTransition #MilitaryToBusiness #MarineTechnology #VeteranFounders #Innovation #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #EntrepreneurialMindset #AI #BoatingSafety

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Steve Tazza — U.S. Navy veteran, Naval Academy graduate, longtime investment management professional, former COO of a software operating company, and a Middle Market Investor/Operator at a private family office.

Steve shares an honest, reflective look at his path from growing up the youngest of four in a military-influenced household, to discovering a calling for service shaped by his World War II Marine father, to navigating the Naval Academy experience in the pre-internet era. He discusses how injuries redirected his commissioning plans, how his time as a supply officer aboard the aircraft carrier Constellation opened his eyes to the business world, and how a curiosity for financial markets sparked a post-Navy career that eventually led to Wall Street, investment management, and later, operating leadership inside a PE-backed software company.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How early influences, role models, and service culture shaped Steve’s decision to attend the Naval Academy
• Why exposure to diverse people and backgrounds in the military becomes an unmatched foundation for leadership
• How setbacks—like injuries and unexpected career pivots—can create new opportunities
• The origins of Steve’s interest in financial markets and how handwritten letters, persistence, and “just showing up” opened doors in the pre-digital networking world
• What it’s like entering the private equity ecosystem later in a career and leading through a full PE transaction as COO
• Why veterans should understand vocabulary, context, and industry language when breaking into finance or private markets
• Timeless transition advice: grit, adaptability, learning from good and bad leaders, and maximizing the power of mentorship

Steve also reflects on the value of humility, the privilege of serving alongside people from all walks of life, and the importance of lifelong curiosity—whether in uniform, on Wall Street, or in private equity–backed operations.

If you’re a veteran exploring business, finance, or private equity—or simply someone interested in an authentic, grounded perspective on service and career transition—this conversation offers wisdom, candor, and lessons that stand the test of time.

Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org
Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #Navy #PrivateEquity #Finance #InvestmentManagement #CareerTransition #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranLeadership #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #VeteransInFinance #COO #Networking #TransitionAdvice

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Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Brian O’Connor — U.S. Navy veteran, former Tactical Information Operations Operator (TIO-O) with Naval Special Warfare, and now the CEO and Founder of Darksaber Labs, a cutting-edge defense technology company focused on AI, cyber, and electronic warfare at the tactical edge.

Brian shares his incredible journey from growing up in New York during 9/11 and enlisting in the Navy to becoming a key player in the intelligence and special operations community. He talks about his path through BUD/S, the challenges of being medically disqualified from SEAL training, and how that setback ultimately led him to a purpose-driven career in signals intelligence (SIGINT) and later, defense technology entrepreneurship.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How adversity and adaptability shaped Brian’s military and entrepreneurial journey
• The evolution of SIGINT and electronic warfare and why “AI at the edge” is critical for the future fight
• Lessons learned from deployments to Iraq and Yemen supporting SEAL teams and coalition partners
• His decision to transition from military service to building Darksaber Labs
• Real-world advice for veterans breaking into the defense tech and startup ecosystem
• The power of networking, persistence, and understanding your value as a veteran in the private sector

Brian also dives into the complexities of working in the defense innovation space—from navigating government contracting and venture capital to understanding the congressional funding process and the importance of focus over “dual-use” distractions.

If you’re a veteran entrepreneur, a tech professional, or someone passionate about national security innovation, this episode offers a powerful look at resilience, leadership, and mission-driven purpose beyond the uniform.

Connect with MilVet → themilvet.org
Follow us on LinkedIn → @MilVet
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #Navy #DefenseTech #AI #Entrepreneurship #CyberSecurity #Transition #SIGINT #Innovation #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #VeteranFounders #MilitaryToTech

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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Mack Ohlinger — U.S. Army veteran, West Point graduate, London Business School alumnus, and Co-Founder & CEO of Dunedain, an AI-driven defense technology company redefining how the military makes critical decisions.

Mack shares his journey from leading soldiers in the Army to leading engineers and product teams in the fast-paced world of defense innovation. He breaks down how Warmind is helping the Department of Defense accelerate decision-making processes — shrinking the traditional Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP) from 12–24 hours to under one hour — and enabling what he calls true “C2 overmatch” on the modern battlefield.

Listeners will get an inside look at how Mack and his team are tackling inefficiencies that cost billions of dollars and millions of labor hours each year, while building tools that empower warfighters to think, decide, and act faster than ever before. Beyond the technology, Mack opens up about the entrepreneurial journey — from the importance of finding the right co-founder and building a strong network, to balancing confidence with humility and learning to pivot quickly in the startup world.

For veterans curious about entrepreneurship, defense tech, or how to turn military insight into innovation, Mack offers grounded, actionable advice — including how to start building before you start pitching, how to attract the right investors, and why success ultimately comes down to team, timing, and relentless execution.

This conversation dives deep into leadership, innovation, and service — from the battlefield to the boardroom — with one of the defense sector’s most exciting young founders.

If you’re a veteran looking to build, lead, or innovate after service, this episode will leave you motivated to take that first step.

🎧 Connect with MilVet → [milvet.org]
💼 Follow us on LinkedIn → @MilVet
📱 Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #AI #Innovation #Army #Transition #C2Overmatch #Warmind #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService

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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Bryan Vavruska —Senior Vice President, Midwest Region at Apex Service Partners; graduate of US Military Academy at West Point and Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management; and US Army Veteran

Bryan shares his journey from serving in the United States military to building a successful career in business and leadership. He dives into how his time in uniform shaped his approach to teamwork, accountability, and resilience, and how those lessons translated into navigating post-service career challenges and opportunities.

Listeners will hear Bryan’s insights on the veteran transition process, strategies for building meaningful professional relationships, and his ongoing commitment to giving back to the veteran community. From lessons learned in the field to navigating corporate environments, this candid conversation offers actionable advice and inspiring stories for veterans and leaders alike.

If you’re a veteran exploring your next chapter or a professional seeking to grow through service, discipline, and authenticity, this episode is packed with wisdom, practical guidance, and personal stories from one of the modern leaders bridging military experience with civilian success.

Connect with MilVet → milvet.org

Follow us on LinkedIn → @MilVet

Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #MarineCorps #Transition #Entrepreneurship #ProfessionalGrowth #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #VeteranAdvocacy

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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Dick Leinenkugel — the retired President and Chief Beer Merchant of the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, former Wisconsin Secretary of Commerce, graduate of Marquette University, and a United States Marine Corps veteran.

Dick shares his inspiring path from growing up in a proud Marine Corps family in Wisconsin to commissioning through Naval ROTC at Marquette University, serving overseas with the 31st Marine Amphibious Unit, and eventually bringing his leadership and sense of service into the beer industry, state government, and veteran advocacy.

Listeners will hear how his time in the Corps shaped his leadership philosophy, how he navigated the post-service transition into business and public service, and how he continues to give back — from championing veterans through initiatives like the Fisher House and the Molson Coors Veterans Resource Group, to mentoring the next generation of Marines and entrepreneurs.

This candid conversation covers everything from early lessons in accountability aboard ship, to the creation of the iconic Summer Shandy, to insights on building meaningful connections and careers after the uniform.

If you’re a veteran exploring your next chapter or a leader seeking to grow through service and authenticity, this episode is packed with wisdom, humility, and humor from one of the greats of both the Corps and corporate America.

Connect with MilVet → milvet.org
Follow us on LinkedIn → @MilVet
Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower the veteran community.

Veterans #Leadership #MarineCorps #Transition #PrivateEquity #Entrepreneurship #BrewingIndustry #Wisconsin #Leinenkugel #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService

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🎙️ In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Ryan McMorrow—Senior Vice President at Vista Equity Partners; graduate of The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and The United States Naval Academy; and U.S. Navy Veteran—to unpack his unconventional path from warships to Wall Street.

Ryan shares how he mapped out a transition strategy from the military to private equity, the mindset required to catch up to civilian peers, and the power of mentors and networking in opening doors that credentials alone can’t. From investment banking grind to being chief of staff for a Fortune 500 executive, and finally landing his dream role in private equity, Ryan breaks down the lessons learned, the bumps along the way, and why servant leadership still guides his career today.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:

• How to reverse-engineer your dream job after military service
• The unfiltered truth about starting at the bottom and playing catch-up
• Why mentors and military networks can change the game
• What private equity really looks like behind the scenes
• How GenAI is reshaping the future of software—and Ryan’s role in it
• Why Vista Equity Partners is investing heavily in veteran talent

Whether you're a transitioning service member eyeing finance, or just looking to hear a raw, honest breakdown of what post-military success really takes—this episode delivers.

📍 Learn more at TheMilVet.org

TheMilVetPodcast #VeteranFinance #PrivateEquity #MilitaryTransition #VistaEquityPartners #GenAI #Leadership #GoldmanSachs #NavyVeteran #ServantLeadership #VeteransInTech #PostMilitarySuccess

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🎙️ In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Anthony Rivera—U.S. Navy SEAL veteran, Founder and CEO of Vetavize, and Brandman University graduate—to explore his journey from combat deployments to building a startup that’s changing how veterans transition to civilian life.

Anthony opens up about the mental and emotional challenges of leaving the SEAL teams, the founding of Vetavize, and what it takes to raise capital, navigate failure, and build a mission-driven business. He also shares powerful insights into the use of ketamine and MDMA-assisted therapy through the Pearl Psychedelic Institute, helping veterans heal from PTSD with the backing of the VA.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:

• How combat shaped Anthony’s leadership and startup mindset
• Why Vetavize is more than an app—it’s a lifeline for veterans
• The truth about failing forward in business and life
• How employers can support veterans and unlock tax benefits
• What psychedelic therapy really looks like—and how it’s saving lives

Veterans can join Vetavize, sign up for a sponsor waitlist, or pay directly.

Organizations can sponsor licenses through Got6.org.

📍 Learn more at TheMilVet.org

TheMilVetPodcast #VeteranFounder #NavySEAL #MilitaryTransition #Vetavize #PsychedelicTherapy #VeteranSupport #MentalHealth #GotYourSix #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #PostServicePurpose

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In this insightful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes Lieutenant General (Ret.) Michael S. Groen, former Director of the Department of Defense’s Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC), Strategic Advisor at GroenTech LLC, Founding Partner, Global Frontier Advisors LP, graduate of Calvin University (formerly Calvin College) and the Naval Postgraduate School, and U.S. Marine Corps Veteran. With a distinguished 37-year career spanning combat operations, senior intelligence leadership, and groundbreaking work in military AI integration, Mike offers a rare window into the evolution of defense technology—and how veterans can successfully transition into the civilian tech world.

Listeners will hear Mike’s compelling journey—from being commissioned as a Marine Corps intelligence officer, to serving as the senior intelligence officer for the 1st Marine Division under General James Mattis during Operation Iraqi Freedom, to leading the modernization of Marine Corps intelligence and ISR, and ultimately becoming the DoD’s top AI executive. Along the way, he reflects on how adaptability, innovation, and a deep ethos of service shaped his leadership.

What’s Inside This Conversation:

• From Intelligence Officer to Architect of Change
  How Mike’s career evolved through operational deployments, advanced technical education, and senior intelligence leadership roles—culminating in a redesign of Marine Corps intelligence processes and capabilities.
• Combat to Community: The Power of Connection
  A vivid story of reuniting with an old friend while training to go to Iraq, underscoring the importance of personal bonds in military service.
• Intel with General Mattis
  Firsthand stories from Operation Iraqi Freedom, including the use of intelligence to identify maneuver routes across the Euphrates and guide the First Marine Division’s decisive operations.
• Building the Marine Corps ISR Enterprise
  Leading efforts to integrate SIGINT, HUMINT, GEOINT, and technical capabilities into a cohesive Marine Corps intelligence community.
• Driving Innovation in AI and Decision-Making
  How Mike’s leadership at the JAIC advanced the Department of Defense’s adoption of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the intersection of process, culture, and technology.
• AI as an Enabler of Command Decisions
  A powerful perspective: AI does not replace commanders—it enhances human judgment by increasing speed, clarity, and efficiency in decision-making.
• Guidance for Veterans in Tech and AI
  Mike shares practical insights to help transitioning veterans leverage their operational experience, leadership, and mission focus in private-sector careers—from major defense firms to startups and entrepreneurial ventures.

Tune in to Hear:

• How a Marine intelligence officer became the Pentagon’s AI chief
• The human side of military intelligence and collaboration
• Key milestones—battle-tested, bureaucratic, and technology-driven—that defined Mike’s career
• Actionable lessons for veterans entering AI, cybersecurity, and defense tech

Discover more stories of transition, leadership, and innovation with TheMilVet Podcast at themilvet.org.

TheMilVetPodcast #USMCVeteran #AI #MarineCorpsIntel #MilitaryTransition #VeteranInTech #DefenseInnovation #AILeadership #VeteranFounders #Cybersecurity #L

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Dev Chandra, Founder of Startup Intros, Associate at Context Ventures, a U.S. Navy veteran, serial builder, and venture operator. Dev shares his entrepreneurial journey, beginning with side-hustling as a digital consultant while in the Navy, transitioning into government consulting with Booz Allen Hamilton, and later returning to the startup world with a focus on AI and early-stage ventures.

He reflects on the lessons learned from navigating a solo consulting business after military service, and how his time at Booz Allen provided valuable structure and insight. That experience, combined with a growing interest in AI automation, reignited his drive to innovate and build within the startup space.

Dev also explains how he became involved in veteran founder and investor networks, including his work with Start Venture and his engagement with the veteran-led community at Context Ventures, which supports military-affiliated entrepreneurs. Through these efforts, he has focused on bridging knowledge gaps for founders by leveraging AI-powered tools and expanding access to defense and dual-use markets.

Throughout the conversation, Dev emphasizes the importance of learning by doing, showing up to opportunities, and tapping into the power of veteran communities. His perspective serves as both tactical advice and inspiration for veterans interested in startups, venture capital, or defense technology.

Tune in to learn about:

• Dev’s path from Navy service to consulting and entrepreneurship
• How his time at Booz Allen helped shape his professional reinvention
• The role of veteran networks in supporting founders and innovators
• Insights into government consulting and private-sector transitions
• Ways AI-powered tools might reduce challenges faced by early-stage startups
• Practical steps for veterans interested in breaking into technology, venture, or startups
• Why showing up to conferences, hackathons, and coffee chats can change your trajectory
• The value of mentorship, collaboration, and building with community

Whether you're a transitioning service member, an aspiring founder, or curious about where military experience intersects with entrepreneurship and AI, this episode offers grounded insights and actionable advice.

🔗 Connect with TheMilVet community at themilvet.org

🎧 Follow the podcast for more veteran stories and practical career guidance

VeteranEntrepreneur #NavyVeteran #VentureCapital #Startups #MilitaryToTech #AIInnovation #DefenseTech #ContextVentures #VeteranFounders #TransitionTips #TheMilVetPodcast

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In this inspiring episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Demi Oloyede, a dynamic United States Navy veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Limpiar, a proptech startup revolutionizing commercial facility maintenance through automation. Demi shares her extraordinary journey from an international student in the U.S. to an enlisted Navy Boatswain’s Mate balancing military service with launching a tech company. Listeners gain insight into how her diverse experiences—from overcoming cultural expectations and financial hardship to navigating military training and entrepreneurship—have shaped her resilient leadership and innovative mindset.

Demi candidly discusses her transition from working multiple part-time jobs to self-funding a startup focused on streamlining vendor management and maintenance for commercial properties nationwide. She reveals the challenges of pivoting business models, managing customer acquisition costs, and leveraging technology and networking to grow her venture. Throughout the conversation, Demi emphasizes the importance of execution over perfection, encouraging veterans and entrepreneurs alike to act boldly, test ideas quickly, and embrace iteration.

Listeners will also hear about Demi’s deep commitment to service, inspired by her grandfather’s military legacy in Nigeria, and how her Navy experience continues to fuel her entrepreneurial drive and community engagement. She offers valuable advice on marketing yourself as a veteran, building supportive networks, and overcoming self-doubt—insights that resonate with anyone facing career transitions or pursuing ambitious goals.

Tune in to learn about:

• Demi’s unique path from international student to Navy Boatswain’s Mate and tech founder
• How military discipline and entrepreneurial grit intersect in her daily life
• The evolution of Limpiar from an on-demand cleaning platform to a comprehensive facility management solution
• Navigating self-funding, pitch competitions, and market pivots in startup growth
• Overcoming cultural expectations and embracing identity as a veteran entrepreneur
• Practical lessons for veterans on leveraging their military experience in the civilian workforce
• The power of community, networking, and making work fun through creative leadership

Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or leader seeking inspiration on resilience and purposeful career building, this episode offers a compelling blueprint for turning challenges into opportunities and building a mission-driven life.

Connect with TheMilVet community at themilvet.org and follow the podcast for more empowering stories.

NavyVeteran #VeteranEntrepreneur #PropTech #StartupJourney #MilitaryLeadership #VeteranNetworking #Entrepreneurship #TheMilVetPodcast #Resilience #TechInnovation #FacilityManagement #VeteranSupport

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In this insightful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes Nathaniel Fick — entrepreneur, investor, writer, former United States Ambassador and United States Marine Corps veteran. Nate’s extraordinary journey bridges combat leadership, business innovation, and diplomatic service, offering listeners a rare look into a career that defies traditional boundaries.

From leading one of the first U.S. units into Afghanistan and Iraq to writing the acclaimed memoir One Bullet Away, Nate shares how his military foundation shaped his approach to leadership, crisis management, and mission-driven work. He dives into his path through business school, private equity, and cybersecurity, ultimately becoming CEO of Endgame and later serving as an executive at Elastic after a successful acquisition.

Nate also recounts how a surprise call from Secretary of State Antony Blinken launched him into public service once again—this time as the nation’s top diplomat for cyberspace and emerging technologies. He reflects on building international partnerships in AI and cyber defense, reinforcing trusted digital infrastructure, and helping shape U.S. tech diplomacy in a time of rapid change.

With refreshing candor, Nate discusses:

• Navigating non-linear career transitions between policy, business, and government
• Treating job interviews as a two-way street and choosing the right leaders to follow
• The power of servant leadership and lessons from mentors like General Jim Mattis
• The emotional highs and near-death moments of scaling a venture-backed startup
• Advice for veterans entering private equity, venture capital, or entrepreneurship
• The enduring impact of One Bullet Away and how storytelling builds bridges

Whether you're a veteran, operator, investor, policymaker, or aspiring leader, Nate’s story is packed with hard-earned insights on risk-taking, humility, and answering the call to serve—again and again.

Tune in to learn about:

• Blending public service and private sector impact over a dynamic career
• Why leadership experience matters more than technical skills early on
• How to vet your future boss and build meaningful mentor relationships
• Bridging the cultural gap between national security and Silicon Valley
• Why your military background is a hidden asset in venture and policy
• How to stay calm and "be clinical" in high-stakes environments

This episode is a masterclass in navigating transitions, leading with values, and finding meaning across multiple domains of service. Don't miss it.

Connect with TheMilVet community at themilvet.org and subscribe to the podcast for more inspiring stories from those leading with purpose.

MarineVeteran #CyberDiplomacy #VeteranLeadership #NateFick #OneBulletAway #TechPolicy #StartupLeadership #VentureCapital #TheMilVetPodcast #VeteranTransition #DigitalPolicy #PublicService #VeteranMentorship #Dartmouth #HarvardBusinessSchool

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins engages in a deep and candid conversation with France Hoang, Co-Founder and CEO of BoodleBox, West Point graduate, and United States Army Veteran.

France shares his inspiring journey, starting as a Vietnamese refugee evacuated from Saigon, and later graduating in the top 1% of his class at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He served in the U.S. Army in multiple leadership roles, including deployments with both the Military Police and Special Forces commands, and as Deputy Chief of Police and SWAT Commander at Fort Leavenworth. His military career includes service in Southeast Afghanistan and contributions to national security across multiple U.S. government branches.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into France’s transition from active duty to law school—graduating magna cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center—and his subsequent appointment as Associate White House Counsel and Special Assistant to the President, along with service as an Assistant United States Attorney and lawyer at Williams & Connolly. He reflects on building teams and integrating innovative technology in law, aerospace, and defense, co-founding companies with combined sales of over $600 million and creating employment for more than 1,200 professionals.

France opens up about his drive to empower lifelong learning in the age of AI as the CEO and co-founder of BoodleBox, a collaborative AI platform now used by over 10,000 professors and students at 650+ colleges, preparing the workforce for the future. He discusses the realities of entrepreneurship, team-building, resilience, and leadership, highlighting hard-won lessons from his decades of experience in high-stakes environments.

This episode delivers practical advice for veterans and founders on career transitions, embracing innovation, and pursuing passion-driven success. France continues to serve on multiple boards and is passionate about empowering communities in education, technology, and veteran support.

Connect with France and TheMilVet community at themilvet.org to learn more about empowering veterans in private equity, venture capital, and beyond.

VeteranLeadership #WestPoint #Entrepreneurship #AIinEducation #MilitaryTransition #StartupLife #Resilience #BoodleBox #TheMilVetPodcast #VeteranSupport #Leadership #CareerPivot

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In this powerful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Riley Tejcek, a remarkable United States Marine Corps Captain, Team USA bobsled athlete, author, and motivational speaker, to explore the inspiring journey of a multi-faceted military leader breaking barriers. Riley shares her unconventional path from a Division I softball player at The George Washington University to Marine officer and elite bobsled Olympic competitor, revealing how athletic discipline and mental toughness cultivated on the field seamlessly translated into military success and leadership.

Listeners will discover how Riley balanced the demanding dual roles of active duty Marine and Olympic-level athlete without a formal World Class Athlete Program, navigating deployments, training, and competition with relentless grit and resilience. She reflects candidly on her deployment to the Middle East, the challenges of being one of the few female officers in the Corps, and the deep bonds forged within the Marine team—often described as the strongest, most unique team she’s ever been part of.

Riley also discusses her children’s book, If You Can Dream It, Be It, which aims to inspire young girls by shattering stereotypes about women in the military and encouraging boldness and courage from an early age. She highlights the importance of visibility and representation, reminding listeners that identity and purpose can evolve, and that the military offers invaluable leadership skills and opportunities for growth beyond service.

This conversation is a compelling reminder that success in life—whether in service, sport, or entrepreneurship—requires embracing fear, taking leaps of faith, and forging your own path even when the roadmap doesn’t exist. Riley’s message resonates deeply for veterans, athletes, and anyone facing transition, urging them to be proud of their journey and to keep striving for greatness.

Tune in to hear about:

• The unlikely transition from collegiate softball to Marine officer and Olympic bobsledder
• Overcoming the hurdles of being a female athlete in a traditionally male-dominated military
• The realities and rewards of deploying while pursuing elite athletic ambitions
• How athletic mindset and Marine Corps leadership principles intertwine
• The motivation and impact behind Riley’s children’s book promoting dreams and courage
• Insights on recruiting and inspiring the next generation of Marines, especially women and athletes
• Why identity and community don’t end with the uniform—they evolve, and support is crucial

Whether you’re a service member, veteran, athlete, or leader, this episode offers an inspiring blueprint for perseverance, leadership, and purpose-driven life. Learn more about Riley’s journey and connect with TheMilVet community at themilvet.org.

MarineCorps #TeamUSA #OlympicAthlete #WomenInMilitary #VeteranLeadership #AthleteTransition #MilitaryRecruiting #IfYouCanDreamItBeIt #MarineAthleteOfTheYear #VeteranSupport #MilitaryPodcast #Resilience #Leadership #FemaleMarine #Bobsled #MilitaryAthlete

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Nate Boyer—United States Army Special Forces Veteran, former NFL player, filmmaker, and co-founder of Merging Vets and Players (MVP)—to explore one of the most unique and inspiring post-military journeys ever told.

Nate shares how, after serving in the Special Forces, he took an unconventional leap into college football at the University of Texas—despite never having played a down of organized football. That decision launched a path that eventually brought him to the Seattle Seahawks locker room, playing alongside legends like Marshawn Lynch and Russell Wilson. But as Nate reflects, the real story begins after the final whistle—when both athletes and veterans alike are faced with a daunting question: Who am I without the uniform?

This raw and honest conversation unpacks how Nate discovered the deep parallels between the military team room and the pro sports locker room—and why losing that sense of mission and community leaves so many feeling lost. That insight led to the founding of MVP, a nonprofit that reconnects veterans and former pro athletes through shared workouts, peer support, and purpose-driven community.

In this episode, Nate opens up about:

• Why he transitioned from his military career to professional football—and what he learned on both fields
• Training alongside elite athletes while still deploying to Afghanistan in the off-season
• Getting “the call” from Pete Carroll and the surreal experience of suiting up in the NFL preseason
• How MVP recreates the team environment for those transitioning out of service or sport
• The making of MVP the movie—and why telling real stories matters
• How you can join, support, or partner with Merging Vets and Players today

Whether you’re a veteran, athlete, leader, or transition support advocate, this episode is a powerful reminder that identity doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It just evolves—and MVP is making sure no one goes through that evolution alone.

Learn more and get involved at: vetsandplayers.org

Follow Nate: @nateboyer37

MergingVetsAndPlayers #VeteranTransition #AthleteLifeAfterSport #GreenBeretToNFL #MVPtheMovie #TeamRoomToLockerRoom #VeteranSupport #NFLTransition #IdentityAfterService #MentalHealthAwareness #MissionContinues #VeteransInFilm #FromServiceToScreen #MilVetPodcast #NateBoyer

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes Nicholas Kovalsky—United States Army veteran and the co-founder of Perspectives Health—to dive into his unconventional journey from military service to mission-driven entrepreneurship.

Nicholas shares how his firsthand exposure to the mental health crisis, both in and out of uniform, inspired him to take action—starting first with a grassroots harm reduction nonprofit, and later pivoting into high-tech healthcare solutions. With raw honesty and grit, he unpacks the whirlwind journey of leaving college, going into debt, and betting everything on building a startup from the ground up—with no business background, no funding, and no clear path forward.

He reflects on the power of just showing up, trusting your team, and learning everything the hard way—through risk, rejection, and relentless iteration. From pitching at random conferences to moving cross-country with no safety net, Nicholas shows what it really takes to build a company that’s already transforming how clinicians manage their most time-consuming task: administrative documentation.

In this episode, Nicholas opens up about:

• Why he walked away from a full ride at UChicago to pursue a startup dream
• Building a startup team from scratch with zero product and 100% conviction
• How his company developed a game-changing AI agent for electronic health records
• The role of speed, risk tolerance, and “high agency” in entrepreneurial success
• What the military instills in founders that no MBA can
• The overlooked opportunity for enlisted veterans to lead in tech and innovation
• Why mental health, substance use, and homelessness remain top priorities for impact

Whether you're a veteran thinking about launching a startup, a mission-driven builder, or someone who believes in solving real problems with real-world action, this episode is packed with insights, hard truths, and authentic inspiration.

VeteranFounders #AIHealthcare #MentalHealthInnovation #VeteransInTech #StartupJourney #MilitaryTransition #HighAgency #HealthTech #EnlistedVeterans #MissionDrivenStartup #FoundersStory #MilVetPodcast #FromBootsToBusiness #SubstanceUseCare #EntrepreneurshipInAction

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In this inspiring episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Matt Ibbetson, United States Navy Veteran, Partner at Ridgemont Equity Partners, and graduate of the United States Naval Academy to explore his fascinating journey from rural roots to high finance.

Matt shares how growing up on a farm instilled the work ethic that carried him through the Naval Academy, life undersea as a submarine officer, and later into elite consulting with McKinsey & Company. He dives deep into the lessons learned in leadership, discipline, and communication—skills that proved invaluable as he transitioned into the Private Equity world.

From building teams on a submarine to driving portfolio operations in middle-market companies, Matt reflects on:

• The power of preparation, humility, and hard work
• How military experience uniquely prepares veterans for leadership in business
• Why networking is about giving—not just getting
• Building value in private equity while staying true to family and personal values
• The importance of mission alignment in your career decisions

Whether you’re a transitioning service member, a veteran in business, or just someone looking for actionable career wisdom, Matt’s story is a powerful example of how to turn service-driven values into long-term professional success.

Don’t miss this one—it’s packed with insights on leadership, transition, and the value of service in every chapter of life.

VeteranLeadership #MilitaryTransition #PrivateEquity #VeteransInBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #SubmarineLife #McKinseyAlumni #NavyVeteran #RidgemontEquityPartners #CareerTransition #MilVetPodcast #ServiceToSuccess #NetworkingMatters #MissionDrivenLeadership #FromMilitaryToBusiness

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, we sit down with Khalid Noori — Program Strategist at Honor the Promise, Special Operations Veteran; Afghanistan National Army Special Operation Command (ANASOC), and graduate of Hindustan University — for a powerful, wide-ranging conversation on service, sacrifice, and storytelling after war.

Khalid shares his extraordinary journey as a Veteran of Special Operations Command in Afghanistan to rebuilding a life and purpose in the United States after the fall of Kabul. Through raw honesty and deep reflection, he speaks about navigating the trauma of war, becoming a father in exile, and the enduring brotherhood between Afghan and American veterans.

We explore NOORI, a documentary set to be released in 2026, led by Honor the Promise and Lyla Kohistany, and produced by Dulcinea Productions, directed by Will Agee. The film follows Khalid Noori and Abdul Matin Popalzai—two former Afghan Special Operations members—on their journey across America as they transition to civilian life, explore identity and purpose, and reconnect with their fellow Afghan and U.S. SOF veterans, including GEN(R) Scott Miller, Michael Rodriguez, and Luke Focer, while confronting the personal and collective wounds of war.

The film’s impact partners are the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation (GWOT) and the Global SOF Foundation (GSOF).

If you’re interested in supporting this cause, please open the link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/operation-enduring-bond.

In this episode:

🔹 How Khalid's experiences in combat and as a refugee inspired the healing journey behind NOORI 🔹 Why telling the full story of Afghanistan means honoring sacrifice—and celebrating partnership
🔹 The identity crisis veterans face after service—and how fatherhood redefined Khalid’s mission
🔹 What Americans often misunderstand about Afghanistan—and why that must change
🔹 A call to view Afghan veterans as assets, not victims, in the next chapter of American society

—---------

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

VeteranTransition #AfghanistanVeterans #NOORI #TheMilVetPodcast #PostTraumaticGrowth #MilitaryBrotherhood #HonorThePromise #SpecialOperations #VeteransStorytelling #AfghanSOF #MilitaryToCivilian #RefugeeToLeader #VeteransInAmerica #FatherhoodAfterWar #GlobalWarOnTerror #ForcesForGood #9_11Legacy #VeteranHealing #AfghanAmericanCommunity

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, we sit down with David Harris, Software Investor at Vista Equity Partners, United States Air Force Veteran, and graduate of United States Air Force Academy and Stanford University, MBA to explore his transition from military service to the world of Private Equity—and how curiosity, grit, and strategic networking opened doors along the way.

David shares how his time at the United States Air Force Academy and his early career in software development laid the groundwork for an untraditional path into high finance. From navigating the MBA application process to landing internships at Blackstone and Scout Ventures, David walks us through the mindset and methods he used to translate military experience into business success.

He also opens up about the power of intelligent networking, how one cold LinkedIn message led to a chain of life-changing opportunities, and why the veteran community is uniquely positioned to support each other in the private sector.

You’ll hear about:

• Why David believes an MBA is the most efficient transition tool for vets unsure of their next step
• How internships and early exposure shaped his path into investing
• The myth of networking—and how to authentically “connect” instead
• How reaching out (even awkwardly) can lead to career-defining relationships
• His decision to skip investment banking and go straight into private equity
• Why software, people, and mission alignment led him to Vista Equity Partners

Whether you're exploring a pivot into finance, tech, or business leadership—or just want to hear how one veteran carved his own lane in a competitive industry—David’s story is packed with actionable insight and inspiration.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

VeteranTransition #MilitaryToMBA #PrivateEquity #VistaEquityPartners #VeteranNetwork #TheMilVetPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #MilitaryExperience #CareerPivot #StanfordGSB #Blackstone #AirForceVeteran #VeteransInFinance #NetworkingForVeterans #MissionDrivenCareers #ForcesForGood

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, we sit down with Michael Osburn, Managing Director of Aristos Global and former Army contractor (civilian) assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Teams in Kunar during The Surge, to explore his unique path from civil-military operations in Afghanistan to tackling complex problems in private equity and construction consulting.

Michael shares how working alongside military, intelligence, and DEA teams as a civilian contractor shaped his approach to leadership, teamwork, and “being an asset, not a liability”—lessons that carried over into building his own company. From the challenges of fusing military and civilian efforts in dynamic environments to navigating a return to private sector life, Michael offers a grounded, practical perspective on how experiences in conflict zones translate into business acumen.

You’ll hear about:

• The challenges of integrating military, civil, and intelligence teams in Afghanistan
• The value of building real-world networks before you need them
• How Michael structured Aristos Global to operate as the “special operations” of construction consulting
• Advice for those transitioning from public service or overseas contracting into private equity, real estate, and construction

Whether you're considering a transition from high-stakes environments or interested in how crisis management skills apply to entrepreneurship, this episode is full of insight, authenticity, and practical wisdom.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

ConstructionLeadership #MilitaryTransition #ContractorExperience #PrivateEquity #RealEstateDevelopment #SpecialOperationsMindset #AfghanistanDeployment #TheMilVetPodcast #CivilMilitaryOperations #VeteranNetwork #LeadershipDevelopment #AristosGlobal #ForcesForGood

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In this episode, Beau Higgins sits down with Adam Frankl—Author, The Developer Facing Startup, Startup Advisor, US Army Veteran —to explore the powerful ways military principles translate into the tech world. Adam shares insights from his career at high-growth startups, the lessons he carried over from the military (like the five-paragraph op order and OODA loop), and how he uses them to lead teams and define winning strategies in business.

They dive deep into:
- Why credibility matters more than hype in developer culture
- How to craft a simple, powerful company strategy in five words or less
- What makes social proof more effective than sales fluff
- The massive and accelerating impact of AI on software development
- Why veterans bring unique value to startups—whether they know it or not
- Tactical advice for new founders: “Talk to your customers first.”

Whether you’re a veteran breaking into tech, a founder shaping your vision, or just curious about how AI is reshaping the future, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, storytelling, and sharp insight.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to lead with clarity, credibility, and purpose in today’s fast-moving world.

VeteransInTech #StartupLeadership #MilitaryToTech #AdamFrankl #BeauHiggins #TechPodcast #Entrepreneurship #StartupAdvice #ArtificialIntelligence #AIandStartups #MilitaryStrategy #OODAloop #VeteranTransition #AIRevolution #TechCareers #LeadershipPodcast #FoundersAdvice #DevCulture #SocialProof #EngineeringLeadership

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Trey Hart, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Valhalla Group and U.S. Army Reserves Civil Affairs Officer for a powerful conversation on veterans transitioning into the world of private equity and venture capital.

Trey shares his personal journey and how his background shaped his leadership, values, and investment strategy. He dives deep into the unique strengths veterans bring to the business world, the importance of USERRA protections, and the challenges many face entering an often nepotistic and niche Private Equity / Venture Capital space.

You’ll hear Trey’s thoughtful perspective on:

• Why hiring one veteran can shift an entire company’s culture and policy
• Common resume pitfalls for transitioning service members—and how to fix them
• How Valhalla Group is investing at the intersection of national defense and commercial innovation
• The importance of veteran-to-veteran networking—and why it’s not a dirty word
• How to own and reshape the narrative of what it means to be a veteran today

Whether you're currently transitioning, already in the civilian workforce, or just curious about how military experience translates into business leadership, this episode is packed with wisdom, humility, and actionable advice.

🎧 Listen now to learn how veterans can lead in the boardroom, in startups, and in shaping the future of American industry.

Learn more about Valhalla Group: https://www.valhallainvestors.com/

Thanks for listening!

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, Beau Higgins sits down with Jason Grower, retired Navy Pilot and passionate veteran advocate, to talk about the realities of military transition — the good, the bad, and the uncertain. From losing a job offer weeks before retirement to finding renewed purpose through networking and community impact, Jason’s story is a roadmap for navigating life after service.

Jason shares how critical it is to own your transition, build your network before you need it, and stay connected to your community — both professionally and personally. The conversation also explores how veterans can rediscover purpose, give back, and thrive in new ways beyond the uniform.

Beau and Jason dive into the following topics:

• Why transitioning service members must own their careers
• The misconceptions around networking — and how it actually mirrors military life
• How to rebuild your identity and purpose after taking the uniform off
• The importance of asking for help — and doing it the right way
• Local vs. national resources for veterans — and why knowing where you're going matters
• How volunteering and mentorship can fill the “give-back” gap many veterans feel

💡 Whether you're still serving, recently transitioned, or just looking to support the veteran community, this episode is packed with real talk, lessons learned, and actionable advice from someone who's been through it — and is helping others do the same.

🔗 Learn more about the New Hampshire Military Leadership Team and Honor Flight
📧 Connect with Jason on LinkedIn or get involved with local veteran support organizations

VeteranTransition #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteranResources #NetworkingNotNotWorking #OwnYourCareer #HonorFlight #GiveBackAfterService #TheMilVet #JasonGrower #BeauHiggins #VeteranSupport #VeteranCulture #VeteranMentorship #MilitaryLifeAfterService

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, Beau Higgins sits down with Alex Lisot, former Air Force Officer and Founder of Master the Military, to discuss the most common — and often misunderstood — challenges veterans face during the transition to civilian life. From VA disability frustrations to rebuilding purpose and community, Alex shares how his platform is guiding thousands of veterans with practical, no-fluff tools and support.

Alex opens up about his own experience navigating the VA system, the lessons learned from building and exiting his first business, and why he chose to structure Master the Military as a for-profit solution in a space dominated by nonprofits. He and Beau dive deep into topics like:

• Why veterans often struggle with self-investment
• The myth that the VA is the enemy
• Building community after service
• Creating structure and purpose outside the uniform
• Lessons learned from entrepreneurship and transitioning out

💡 Whether you’re active duty, in transition, or already out, this episode offers insight, motivation, and resources from someone who’s walked the path — and is building the bridge for others to follow.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.masterthemilitary.com
📧 Contact Alex: alex@masterthemilitary.com

VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VAClaims #Entrepreneurship #VeteranBenefits #MasterTheMilitary #MilVet #VeteranLife #MilitaryToCivilian #VAHelp #ForProfitWithPurpose #AlexLisot #BeauHiggins #VeteranResources

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In this powerful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Kellie Hall Sbrocchi, an active duty Navy officer, trailblazing recruiter, digital influencer, and founder of the Why Not Do Both? Movement.

Kellie shares her deeply personal journey—from resisting the idea of the Navy as a teen to rising as one of the service’s most visible and authentic voices. She opens up about breaking stereotypes, navigating criticism, and staying true to herself in a uniformed world that wasn’t built with femininity in mind.

💡 What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why Kellie almost didn't join the Navy—and what changed her mind
• How she navigated bias and built credibility while embracing femininity
• The origin story behind her viral platform and her podcast, Why Not Do Both?
• Lessons in leadership, resilience, and creating space for others to be fully themselves
• Why representation in the military matters more than ever

📣 Kellie’s story is one of courage, conviction, and choosing to lead in her own way. Whether you're in uniform, transitioning out, or just want to be inspired by someone choosing the harder path on purpose—this episode is for you.

If you want to connect with Kellie, please see below for her social links!

Instagram | Podcast | TikTok

https://kelliesbrocchi.com/

For collaborations, bookings, or media inquiries, please contact manager@kelliesbrocchi.com directly.

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In this episode of The MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Wayne Phelps, a 20-year veteran and accomplished author, to explore his remarkable journey from military service to the private sector and publishing world.

Wayne shares candid stories from his time as a Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) officer and later as a pioneering UAV squadron commander during a transformative period for military aviation. From being part of the 15th MEU during 9/11 to leading drone operations in combat zones, Wayne gives us a firsthand look at the evolving role of technology in warfare.

But his story doesn't end with retirement. Wayne opens up about his less-than-perfect transition out of uniform, the challenge of finding purpose post-service, and how he navigated roles in both established companies and cutting-edge defense startups. He also discusses his book “On Killing Remotely”, a deep psychological study of drone warfare and its impact on modern-day warriors.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans thinking about their next chapter, those curious about the realities of tech startups, and anyone interested in the human side of remote warfare.

🎧 Listen in to hear:
- What it’s really like to transition from Marine Commander to Startup Executive
- How Wayne’s work is shaping the conversation around drone warfare and mental health
- The importance of leadership, humor, and adaptability in every phase of service and beyond

📘 “On Killing Remotely” – Available wherever books are sold

Want more stories like Wayne’s? Subscribe to The MilVet Podcast and follow us for deep dives into military-to-civilian transitions, leadership insights, and the veteran impact in private equity and venture capital.

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this special episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes longtime friend and retired Marine Corps Colonel Tom Gordon, now serving as the Commandant of Cadets at The Citadel, one of the nation's premier senior military colleges.

Tom shares his remarkable journey from aspiring Marine Corps Officer in junior high to leading Marines in some of the Corps’ most demanding roles — including commanding 1st Tank Battalion, leading the first Black Sea Rotational Force, and serving as the Military Secretary (Chief of Staff) to the 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Robert Neller. Tom reflects on what it was like to witness top-level leadership firsthand and how that shaped his understanding of service, influence, and mentorship.

We also explore his unique transition into academia, the lessons he’s carrying forward at The Citadel, and his motivation behind writing his leadership-focused book, Marine Maxims: Turning Leadership Principles into Practice — now in its fifth reprint and gaining traction beyond the military in law enforcement and other leadership circles.

Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran exploring new chapters, or someone passionate about leadership and public service, this conversation is packed with authentic wisdom, laughs, and actionable insights.

Topics Covered:

• Tom’s path to the Marine Corps via The Citadel
• Leading Marines in tanks, Eastern Europe, and large-scale operations
• Lessons from the top: Inside the Commandant’s inner circle
• Transition tips (and what not to do)
• Higher education, service, and shaping future leaders
• Writing Marine Maxims and its real-world impact

📘 Check out Marine Maxims wherever you get your books — a must-read for leaders in and out of uniform.

Listen now to hear a truly grounded and inspiring conversation between two Marines who’ve seen it all — and are still finding ways to serve.

MilVetPodcast #TomGordon #TheCitadel #MarineMaxims #VeteranLeadership #MilitaryTransition #VeteranVoices #MarineCorps #LeadershipDevelopment #VetsInHigherEd #ServiceAfterService #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranPodcast #TransitionTips #CommandantLife #LawEnforcementLeadership #MilitaryCareer #VeteransInAcademia

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In this special episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with a legendary Marine, friend, and former boss—General James Lukeman (Ret.), now President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. With 40 years of active duty service, including command at every level from platoon to division, General Lukeman shares candid reflections on his journey from a Marine Corps family upbringing to an unexpected rise to general officer.

Together, Beau and General Lukeman dive into:

• The mentors and leaders who shaped his path
• His unconventional route to general officer—selected just days before retirement eligibility
• The realities of transitioning after decades in uniform
• His current mission at the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and the incredible story of the National Museum of the Marine Corps

Whether you're a transitioning service member, a history enthusiast, or just love good leadership stories, this episode offers rich insights, laughs, and a powerful reminder of what it means to serve—and to preserve that legacy for future generations.

🎧 Tune in for an episode full of inspiration, reflection, and Marine Corps pride.

MilVetPodcast #VeteranLeadership #MarineCorps #MilitaryTransition #MarineCorpsHeritage #LeadershipMatters #MilitaryHistory #VeteranVoices #USMC #GeneralOfficer #MarineForLife #MilitaryPodcast #ServiceAndSacrifice #MentorshipMatters

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Host Beau Higgins welcomes two powerhouse leaders from The Honor Foundation: Matt Stevens, CEO and former Navy SEAL, and Kelly McGraw, Chief Impact Officer and long-time Naval Special Warfare spouse. In this deep and personal episode, they explore the challenges and rewards of transitioning out of Special Operations and into civilian life.

Matt shares his journey from SEAL Team leadership to Honor Foundation graduate, tech startup exec, and now organizational head—underscoring how identity, introspection, and network-building reshaped his post-military path. Kelly brings the vital perspective of a military spouse navigating transition as a family affair, and highlights the groundbreaking programs helping SOF families redefine their next mission.

Together, they discuss:
- Why transition is a team sport
- The importance of introspection before reinvention
- The Honor Foundation’s expansion beyond SOF and into spouse support
- Real talk on fears, identity shifts, and family priorities after the military
- How companies can engage and hire elite SOF talent

If you're in the military community, preparing for transition, or want to understand the power of purpose-driven reinvention, this episode delivers the insights and honesty you’ve been looking for.

Learn more about The Honor Foundation at honor.org

MilVetPodcast #HonorFoundation #VeteranTransition #MilitarySpouse #SpecialOperations #VeteranVoices #PostMilitaryLife #CareerAfterService #LeadershipAfterService #TransitionIsATeamSport #FromBootsToBusiness #VeteransInTech #MilitaryToCorporate #SupportOurVets #PurposeAfterUniform

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In this inspiring episode of The MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Paul Hylenski, CEO and Founder of Vet Mentor AI, Marine Corps veteran, best-selling author, and 4x Tedx Speaker to explore his journey from the flight line to the forefront of artificial intelligence.

After serving eight years in the Marine Corps — including at the prestigious Presidential Helicopter Squadron (HMX-1) — Paul faced the same frustrating, confusing VA disability claims process that so many veterans struggle with. Denied multiple times and left with only a 10% rating, he decided to take matters into his own hands. Teaching himself to code five programming languages in just six months, Paul built his own AI platform to navigate the VA system — ultimately recovering the full benefits he deserved.

💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The creation of Vet Mentor AI, an avatar-driven platform that analyzes VA claims and helps veterans refile with precision.
• How AI uncovered a shocking VA error: a veteran’s claim had been denied using another veteran’s medical records.
• Paul's battle-tested leadership lessons — and how bad managers inspired his bestselling books and multiple TEDx Talks.
• Why error-proofing processes, not people, is the future of effective leadership in both military and civilian organizations.
• The importance of resilience, perseverance, and taking the shot — whether you're applying for a TED Talk or building something that doesn’t exist yet.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans navigating the benefits system, leaders seeking a more human-centered approach, and anyone curious about the real-world potential of AI for social impact.

TheMilVetPodcast #VeteranSuccess #VetMentorAI #PaulHylenski #AIForGood #LeadershipMatters #MarineCorps #VAClaims #VeteranSupport #TEDxSpeaker #VeteranEntrepreneur

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In this powerful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with fellow Marine veteran and entrepreneur Nick Powell, Vice President of Business Development at BigRentz, the nation's largest equipment rental network. Nick shares his incredible journey from a turbulent path in high school to the Marine Corps, where a chance encounter with a recruiter in dress blues changed the trajectory of his life. Listeners will hear how Nick’s engineering MOS, unexpected at first, laid the foundation for his civilian career — one that eventually led him into the world of tech startups and equipment rental innovation.

Nick also opens up about the challenges of transitioning out of the military, the value of soft skills like networking, and how he pivoted from bartending to co-founding and scaling a multimillion-dollar construction tech startup, ProsRent, which would later merge into BigRentz.

Whether you're a veteran exploring your next chapter or an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, this episode is filled with practical wisdom on leadership, resilience, and the power of building the right team. Tune in to hear how Nick applied his Marine mindset to the business world and why humility, hustle, and human connection are keys to success.

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this riveting episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Tim Hsia sits down with Gene Yu — a West Point graduate, former U.S. Army Special Forces officer, author, entrepreneur, and the man behind an audacious real-life hostage rescue mission. Gene shares the extraordinary story that inspired his new book, The Second Shot: A Green Beret’s Last Mission, recounting how a personal connection, combat experience, and sheer determination, converged to rescue family friend Evelyn Chang from Abu Sayyaf terrorists.

Gene opens up about his difficult start at West Point, growing up with identity struggles, how a stolen book by author Gus Lee set him on the path to the military, and how he transformed from the bottom-ranked plebe to one of the Army's most elite operators. He also reflects on the international spotlight that followed the rescue, being thrust into celebrity status in Taiwan, and how all of it led to his latest mission — founding cybersecurity startup Blackpanda.

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, grit, and the long arc of purpose. Whether you're a veteran, founder, or simply seeking inspiration, Gene’s journey offers powerful lessons on delayed success, growth through hardship, and paying it forward.

Topics Covered:

• The real-life rescue that inspired The Second Shot
• Special Forces training and operational insight
• Identity, struggle, and finding purpose
• From West Point to Palantir to founding Blackpanda
• Navigating fame, family, and public service
• Delayed velocity and entrepreneurship

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, host Beau Higgins sits down with Vincent "Rocco" Vargas, a man who has worn many uniforms—Army Ranger, Border Patrol Agent, Drill Sergeant, Actor, and more.

From chasing a dream in college baseball to deploying with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, Vincent shares how resilience, adaptability, and service shaped his journey across multiple careers. He opens up about the impact of 9/11, the trauma and brotherhood of combat, and how he transitioned that mindset into law enforcement and, eventually, Hollywood.

🎬 Most known for his breakout role on Mayans M.C., Vincent reveals how his military discipline, emotional resilience, and leadership training helped him succeed on set. He dives into what it's like auditioning in LA, how acting became a second mission, and how his time in uniform continues to inform his creative work today.

🔑 Episode Highlights:

• The unexpected way losing a baseball scholarship led to the military
• The challenges and brotherhood of being an Army Ranger
• Lessons from serving in Border Patrol's elite special operations teams (BORSTAR & BORTAC)
• How trauma, training, and teamwork laid the foundation for success in Hollywood
• Why emotional intelligence is the next frontier for veteran success

Whether you're transitioning from the military, navigating your next mission, or just want a raw, real story of purpose-driven reinvention—this one’s for you.

🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

🔗 Subscribe and follow @TheMilVet for more stories of leadership, resilience, and veteran excellence.

VeteranStories #VincentVargas #TheMilVetPodcast #MilitaryTransition #RangersLeadTheWay #BorderPatrol #VeteransInFilm #PurposeAfterService #VeteranLeadership #EmotionalResilience #MayansMC

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Lewis Manalo, Co-Founder and Executive Producer at Old Glory Studios, for a wide-ranging conversation on his incredible journey—from NYU film school to combat engineer in the 82nd Airborne Division, and back to civilian life as a creative force in the gaming and film industries.

Lewis shares how witnessing 9/11 from his Jersey City apartment changed the trajectory of his life, leading him to enlist and deploy to Afghanistan during OEF. He talks about his time in uniform, including early missions with the 101st Airborne, and the cultural differences between units that stood out to him.

After transitioning out of the Army, Lewis faced unexpected challenges reentering the film world, even needing to remove his military service from his resume at times. But through perseverance and his passion for storytelling, he found his niche—first in writing and then in the world of AAA video games like Ghost Recon and Dying Light 2.

Now the Co-Founder and Executive Producer of Old Glory Studios, Lewis opens up about launching a veteran-led game studio, creating their upcoming title ExoBorn, and how his military experience continues to shape the narratives he brings to life.
This episode is a must-listen for veterans navigating creative careers, gamers curious about what it takes to build a studio, and anyone who loves a powerful story of service, resilience, and reinvention.

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In this powerful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes Marine Corps Veteran and current Mission Lead at Swarm Aero, Andrew “Andy” Christian, for an in-depth conversation that spans decades of service, personal evolution, and cutting-edge innovation.

Andy shares his story of enlisting in the Marine Corps straight out of Wisconsin, deploying to Desert Storm just 90 days after boot camp, and embarking on a storied career in infantry, reconnaissance, and special operations. From the gritty sands of Saudi Arabia and the streets of Mosul to the early days of MARSOC and Afghanistan’s complex counterinsurgency operations, Andy’s experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.

He opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped him—whether it was watching recon Marines walk with swagger, enduring a deadly convoy ambush in Iraq, or standing up village stability operations in Taliban-controlled territory alongside legendary leaders like General Scott Miller. His path also includes a unique transition from enlisted to officer via the Marine Corps’ Meritorious Commissioning Program, proving that grit, initiative, and leadership can change a trajectory.

Now in the tech world as a Mission Lead at Swarm Aero, Andy brings his battlefield lessons to the forefront of drone and autonomous flight innovation—helping shape the future of aerospace and national security.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of special operations, leadership under fire, and the journey from combat to cutting-edge tech.

Tune in for a blend of Marine Corps grit, recon wisdom, and forward-looking aerospace vision.

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In this compelling episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins is joined by Cassidy Nolan, a United States Marine Corps Veteran turned advocate for veterans' mental health. Cassidy opens up about his personal journey, from his time in service to his struggles with PTSD and the challenges many veterans face transitioning back to civilian life.

Through candid conversation, Cassidy discusses the importance of mental health awareness in the military community and the vital work being done to support veterans in their recovery. He shares insights from his own healing process, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the impact of finding purpose after service.

This episode is a raw and inspiring look at the hidden wounds of war and the strength it takes to confront them. Cassidy’s story is a reminder that veterans are not defined by their struggles, but by their resilience, courage, and the support they give one another.

In addition, Cassidy talks about his involvement with Mach 1 Hot Sauce, a veteran-owned business that blends bold flavors with a passion for supporting the veteran community. With each bottle, they not only spice up your meals but also contribute to veteran programs, helping those who served find new purpose. Tune in for a powerful conversation about healing, hope, and the ongoing fight for veterans' well-being, all while supporting a great cause!

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In this powerful episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Miki Nguyen to share the gripping story of his family's escape from Saigon during the fall of Vietnam in 1975. Miki’s father, a South Vietnamese military officer, made a heroic and daring escape, not just for his own family, but for his crew and countless others.

Miki reflects on the extraordinary resilience and determination of his father, a man who defied the chaos of war to land a Chinook helicopter in the heart of Saigon, risking everything to rescue his loved ones. With firsthand accounts and never-before-seen photos, Miki details his father’s life as a helicopter pilot, the desperate scramble to leave Saigon amidst the bombing, and the unexpected and dangerous journey to find a US Navy ship in the open sea.

This episode goes beyond a war story—it’s a tale of grit, survival, and the unbreakable bond of family. Miki’s journey to uncover his father’s lost legacy and bring it to light is a testament to the unsung heroes whose stories have remained hidden for decades. Listen in for a rare and emotional look at history through the eyes of a child and the heroism of a father.

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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins is joined by Kevin Cornish, the founder and CEO of Moth + Flame, a groundbreaking company revolutionizing training through virtual reality. Kevin shares his journey from Hollywood to tech, detailing how he transitioned from aspiring filmmaker to leading a company at the forefront of AI and VR. He explains the power of immersive training experiences, particularly for the military and workforce development, and the benefits of using virtual reality for scenarios like suicide prevention, cultural training, and even aircraft maintenance.

As a self-proclaimed "Luddite" when it comes to technology, Beau learns from Kevin how VR is not just a futuristic concept but a practical, scalable tool already making a real impact. The conversation also explores the challenges and opportunities of bringing immersive tech into mainstream use, while debunking some of the myths and fears surrounding AI and VR. Whether you’re familiar with these technologies or just getting started, this episode offers an insightful look into the future of training and decision-making in high-pressure environments.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how VR is not just a tool, but a bridge to transforming how we learn, react, and make decisions.

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In this episode of the Military Veteran Podcast, Tim Hsia sits down with Emery Wager, a Marine veteran, Stanford graduate, and the co-founder of Confido Legal. Emery takes us on a journey from his childhood in the Pacific Northwest to the competitive sailing world and his transition into the Marines. He reflects on his time at Stanford, where he balanced academics with sailing, and the decision that led him to join the Marine Corps despite not coming from a military background.

Emery shares his experience from officer candidate school at Quantico to his deployments in Afghanistan, offering valuable insights into leadership and the realities of military life. After his military service, Emery made a seamless transition into the world of legal tech, co-founding Confido Legal, a company dedicated to modernizing the legal industry. He discusses how his background in engineering and leadership informed his entrepreneurial journey.

Listen in as Emery talks about navigating different worlds—from the academic halls of Stanford to the intense training of the Marine Corps, and how these experiences shaped his approach to business and life today.

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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Brian Coyne, a former Marine and current CEO in the private equity world. Brian shares his unique journey from serving 26 years in the U.S. Marine Corps to successfully transitioning into the private equity sector—a path less traveled by many veterans.

Brian discusses how his military background in leadership, discipline, and results-driven environments translated into the corporate world, despite the challenges of lacking a traditional finance background. From exploring opportunities in defense and sports to ultimately finding a home in private equity, Brian provides valuable insights into the power of networking, mentorship, and leveraging one's strengths during a transition.

Tune in to hear how Brian navigated this unfamiliar terrain, built meaningful connections, and earned the chance to lead within a private equity firm, ultimately becoming a CEO in a turnaround company. Whether you're transitioning out of the military or looking to make a career change, Brian’s story offers practical advice on tackling new challenges and making bold career moves.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation on leadership, resilience, and the power of learning as you go.

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Welcome back to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Rich Comitz, a dedicated veteran and Chief Operating Officer at American Corporate Partners (ACP), to discuss his remarkable journey from military service to academia and finally to his current role helping veterans transition into civilian careers.

Rich takes us through his time at West Point, his 23 years of service in the U.S. Army, and his unexpected path into higher education. We explore the challenges veterans face when transitioning out of the military, including the frustrations of applying to countless jobs with little response. Rich shares how networking, mentorship, and a bit of serendipity helped him land his position at Long Island University, and how this eventually led him to ACP.

He also gives us a deep dive into the work ACP is doing to help veterans and military spouses find their next career, build meaningful mentorship relationships, and thrive in the civilian workforce. Whether you're a transitioning veteran or someone who supports them, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating career pivots, embracing new opportunities, and finding success after service.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about perseverance, mentorship, and the power of service. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share the podcast with a friend!

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In this episode of The MilVet Podcast, Joseph Cabrera from Mainshares joins hosts Brendan Aaronson and Beau Higgins to discuss search funds and small business acquisitions. Cabrera, a former Army officer and special ops veteran, shares his transition from military service to entrepreneurship, including a near-miss with Goldman Sachs. He discusses the importance of leadership, team building, and creating a strong "tribal" dynamic in business, drawing parallels to his military experiences.

Cabrera recounts his journey to becoming Chief of Staff at a finance and tech firm, where he discovered his passion for building new businesses and fostering strong teams. He then founded Wyld Whisper, a leadership development company that utilizes extreme experiences, before ultimately joining Mainshares to empower the next generation of business operators through acquisition.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship through acquisition and how veterans can leverage their unique skills in the business world. Cabrera's story is an inspiration for vets seeking new avenues for service and success.

Learn more about Mainshares at mainshares.com and connect with Joseph on LinkedIn!

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Welcome back to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Halterman previously of The Honor Foundation to discuss the incredible work they’re doing to support veterans, particularly those in the special operations community, as they transition to civilian life.

Michael takes us through his own journey, from being one of the first members of MARSOC to navigating the challenges of reintegrating into civilian society. We dive deep into the importance of finding your true identity outside the uniform, and how the Honor Foundation’s unique approach helps veterans discover their purpose and strengths—beyond just securing a paycheck.

With valuable insights on leadership, transition, and the power of self-discovery, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone going through transition or supporting a veteran in their journey. Don’t miss Michael’s powerful message on how to approach life after service with clarity, purpose, and confidence.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share the podcast with a friend!

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In this episode of The Military Veteran Podcast, we chat with Julie Cane, a former Navy pilot who made a successful transition from the military to the civilian workforce. From flying helicopters for Navy SEALs to leading a company focused on investing in democracy, Julie shares her fascinating journey and the lessons learned along the way.

In this conversation, Julie opens up about her military background, including her time at the U.S. Naval Academy, flight school in Pensacola, and her role in various high-adrenaline missions. She also discusses her smooth (but challenging) transition to civilian life, touching on her work at SEI Investments, her time at UCLA for an MBA, and the shift to consulting and corporate venture capital at companies like Autodesk.

We also dive into the transferable skills veterans bring to the civilian world: leadership, strategy, adaptability, and resilience. Whether you're a veteran making the transition, someone curious about military career paths, or just interested in inspiring career stories, this episode is for you!

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In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Brendan Aaronson and co-host Beau Higgins sit down with retired three-star General Robert Ruark, a Marine Corps legend whose 36 years of service have left an indelible mark on both the military and nonprofit sectors. General Ruark, now the president and CEO of the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, shares his extraordinary journey—from leading troops in combat to advocating for financial relief and support for our nation's sailors and Marines.

In addition to diving into the crucial work of the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, General Ruark discusses the challenges faced by enlisted Marines, particularly financial struggles, and what changes are needed to better support them. He also opens up about the invaluable lessons he's learned from Marines over the years—lessons of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment—that continue to shape his work today.

If you’d like to learn more about the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, you can go to any of their 52 offices or click through to their website: https://www.nmcrs.org/

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Today we’re joined by Roxanne Bras Petraeus, co-founder and CEO of Ethena, an innovative compliance training platform redefining how businesses approach ethics and culture. Roxanne shares her journey from serving as an Army Engineer and Rhodes Scholar to launching Ethena, a Series B company that's raised $50 million in venture capital.

We dive into the inspiration behind Ethena and how it transforms compliance training into a tool for building company culture. Roxanne reflects on the leadership lessons she carried from the military into the tech world, her experiences as a female founder, and her advice for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. She also discusses navigating challenges in fundraising, hiring, and building a mission-driven business.

This conversation is packed with insights for veterans, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to create impactful solutions. Learn more about Ethena at goethena.com and follow Roxanne on LinkedIn for more inspiring content!

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For our 100th episode, we’re honored to host Chris Cassidy, former Navy SEAL, NASA astronaut, and current President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum. Chris shares his incredible journey from a small town in Maine to becoming one of only 500 humans to have traveled to space.

In this episode, Chris reflects on his time as a SEAL during pivotal moments in U.S. history, including deployments shortly after 9/11, and shares what it felt like to view Earth from space for the first time. He dives into the leadership lessons learned during his military and NASA careers, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, teamwork, and preparation under pressure. Chris also discusses his transition to leading the Medal of Honor Museum, where he continues to inspire by preserving the stories of our nation’s heroes.

Don’t miss this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation. Learn more about Chris’s work at mohmuseum.org, and join us as we celebrate 100 episodes of incredible stories and insights!

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Grant Demaree is the co-founder and CEO of OneBrief, a company revolutionizing mission planning for the Department of Defense. With deployments across major military operations and $53 million in funding, OneBrief is setting the standard for streamlined collaboration and faster decision-making in defense.

Grant shares insights into the challenges of military staff planning, from coordinating across massive teams to breaking the PowerPoint and Word bottleneck. He also discusses how AI and automation are reshaping military operations, the importance of self-awareness for transitioning veterans, and his experiences scaling OneBrief from a single-person startup to a company with over 100 employees.

If you’re curious about defense innovation, entrepreneurship, or making an impact in the national security space, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

Learn more about OneBrief at onebrief.com and connect with Grant on LinkedIn!

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Welcome to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Tyler Sweatt, CEO of Second Front Systems and partner at the Silicon Valley Defense Group. With a dynamic background that includes military service, sales leadership, and now leading a cutting-edge public benefit corporation, Tyler shares insights on navigating the complexities of defense innovation and scaling a high-growth business.

Tyler discusses the mission of Second Front Systems, leading fundraising for a startup, and growing his team from 10 to over 130. Tyler also opens up about the challenges and opportunities of leading in the defense sector.

He offers actionable advice for veterans transitioning out of the military, emphasizing the value of sales skills and the potential to make a significant impact in the defense industry. Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or industry professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways.

Discover more about Second Front Systems at secondfront.com and connect with Tyler on LinkedIn to keep the conversation going.

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This week, we’re thrilled to feature Mike Frank, Deputy Chief Technology Officer of the U.S. Navy. Mike’s journey is one of dynamic leadership, transitioning from the Marine Corps to consulting roles and now tackling innovation challenges in federal service.

Mike shares his insights on the unique opportunities and challenges of working in public service, including how veterans can bring their skills to solve some of the toughest problems facing the nation. He discusses his work at the Marine Innovation Unit, the importance of bridging the gap between private industry and government, and how the Department of the Navy is prioritizing cutting-edge technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Mike also provides valuable advice for transitioning veterans, explains how to engage with the government as a civilian or entrepreneur, and makes a strong case for the reserves as a way to stay connected to mission-driven work.

Connect with Mike Frank:

• Visit the Department of the Navy CIO website for more information.
• Reach out to Mike on LinkedIn

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Welcome to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Frank Baumann and Boe Nankivel, operating partners at Cold Bore Capital, a veteran-founded private equity firm focused on the lower middle market. Frank and Boe share their journeys from military service—including Boe’s time as a Navy SEAL and Frank’s experience in Navy intelligence—to the world of private equity.

We explore Cold Bore’s unique approach to driving value through operational improvements, its emphasis on hiring veterans, and how servant leadership plays a pivotal role in transforming businesses. Frank and Boe dive into the challenges of transitioning to civilian careers, the importance of mentorship, and the opportunities private equity offers for veterans looking to apply their leadership skills in high-impact roles.

Learn more about Cold Bore Capital and its innovative model by visiting their website.

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Today, we’re joined by Rob Henderson, author of Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class. From a childhood in foster care to serving in the U.S. Air Force and earning degrees from Yale and Cambridge, Rob’s journey is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the transformative power of military service.

In this episode, Rob shares how the structure of the Air Force and key mentors helped him rewrite his story, overcome adversity, and achieve academic and professional success. His reflections on navigating life’s challenges offer powerful lessons for veterans and beyond.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation—and be sure to pick up Rob’s memoir, Troubled, available here.

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In this MilVet podcast episode, guest Dave Won explores how childhood experiences shape financial behaviors and stress. He addresses the societal taboo around discussing money, unique challenges for veterans, and the importance of self-advocacy in negotiations. Dave shares insights on emotional drivers of financial decisions, practical budgeting tips, and understanding your relationship with money. Listen here to master your money mindset and better understand your relationship with money.

For more information on how to better understand your relationship with finances go to https://www.davewon.co/

Enjoy the show!

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Welcome to the Military Veteran Podcast! In today's episode, we’re excited to host Steve Gilman, the co-founder and CEO of OneRange, alongside Carina Cho and Lenore Karafa. Steve has an incredible, multifaceted background, —from being a Major League Baseball athlete to an Intelligence Officer and now a successful entrepreneur. We dive into his journey, the lessons he's learned along the way, and how his diverse experiences have shaped the creation of OneRange—a platform designed to help organizations grow smarter, more connected teams.

In this episode, Steve takes us through his career path, from his early days as a mechanical engineer and baseball player to his time in the Defense Intelligence Agency. He shares how these experiences led him to start his first company, Blockparty, and later pivot to his current venture, OneRange. Steve discusses the challenges and rewards of building a business, particularly in the realm of people development and upskilling, and how the company is addressing one of the biggest issues facing organizations today—empowering talent through personalized learning.

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In this TheMilVet Podcast episode, Lenore Karafa, Senior Client Partner at TMV, shares her inspiring journey from military service to a successful career in finance and consulting.

Lenore discusses her early life, military experiences, and the challenges of transitioning to the corporate world. She highlights the impact of mentorship, strategic decisions, and resilience, as well as the importance of nonprofit involvement.

With insights on the evolving defense tech landscape, Lenore offers valuable advice for veterans, encouraging them to find their North Star and pursue meaningful career paths.

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Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Join us on this episode of the MilVet Podcast as host Brendan Aronson sits down with Carl Sciacchitano, a graphic novelist and the son of a Vietnam veteran. Carl opens up about his recently published graphic novel, which delves into his father's experiences in Vietnam and the lasting impact of war on their relationship.

Throughout the conversation, Brendan and Carl explore themes of PTSD, storytelling, and the unique bond between a veteran and their child. Carl shares insights from his father’s time in the Air Force and the challenges they faced together as they navigated the complexities of trauma and healing.

They also discuss Carl’s creative process, the significance of their trip back to Vietnam, and the transformative power of storytelling in understanding and honoring the past. This episode is a poignant reflection on family, memory, and the enduring effects of war.

If you or a veteran you know is struggling with PTSD, help is available:

• VA Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1)
• National Center for PTSD: 800-698-2411
• PTSD Foundation of America: (877) 717-PTSD (7873)

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. Let's continue to support our veterans and raise awareness about PTSD.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share the podcast!

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In this TheMilVet podcast episode, COO and recruiting expert Jim Lose breaks down the journey from military to civilian careers. Jim shares insights on handling identity shifts, navigating the job market, and acing interviews. With straightforward advice on self-promotion, confidence, and company research, he offers veterans a clear path to success. This conversation is packed with practical tips on building relationships, crafting standout resumes, and making career moves that count.

Ready to start your next mission? Dive into Jim’s expert tips and explore job openings at themilvet.org!

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In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, Jim O'Farrell, president and CEO of Advanced Management Strategies Group (AMSG), shares his journey from Navy sailor to the Naval Academy to building a successful government contracting firm. He discusses the value of sales experience, learning from failure, and fostering a strong corporate culture. Jim highlights the rewards and challenges of government contracting and AMSG's people-first core values.

Thank you to our Sponsor at NYU Stern School of Business. NYU Stern's MS in Fintech is a one-year, part-time program designed for professionals with an interest in finance or technology who want to gain a cutting-edge skillset and emerge as a leader in fintech. NYU Stern is a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

If you are ready to take your career to the next level, please visit us at stern.nyu.edu/msft to learn more!

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Nick Thompson, acclaimed journalist, runner, and CEO of The Atlantic shares his views on the media coverage of veterans, the military, and politics in the current age. He provides his insights on the changing landscape of global politics and technology’s impact on the world. In this episode, we explore Nick’s thoughts on how AI will change the media industry and the military, the history of his grandfather, Paul Nitze, and his commitment to running.

In this conversation, Tim Hsia interviews Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, about various topics including military and veteran news, the future of warfare, and the impact of technology on media. They discuss the importance of covering the roles of military veterans in politics, the evolving nature of warfare with advancements in technology, and the challenges and adaptations in the media industry. They also touch on the rise of the creator economy and how media companies can incorporate rising creators. The conversation covers topics such as the dynamic between media organizations and creators, the value of journalistic content to AI companies, the comparison between the military and media industries, the Cold War and its relevance to today, the importance of physical fitness and running, and leadership tips and favorite books, movies, musicians, and travel spots.

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Tyler Johnson and Carlos Romero discuss the upcoming eMERGE Americas event in Miami, a major platform for technology, entrepreneurship, and veteran programs. You’ll hear tips on how to get the most out of attending, from networking to the power of in-person connections. From highlighting the benefits of in-person conferences to exploring networking opportunities and future visions for eMERGE, this episode provides insights on how to make the most of this AWESOME event.

Don’t miss out on eMERGE Americas! 🚀 Whether you're a veteran, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, this event is packed with networking and innovation. 🔥 Register now and be part of the action! 🙌

https://emergeamericas.com/conference-expo/conference-expo-2025/

To help those affected by Hurricane Milton:

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Holden Lindblom, an Army Veteran and co-founder of VetraFi, shares his unique path from military life into the world of entrepreneurship. He highlights the positives and negatives of creating a start-up company and how he’s leveraging his experiences to build VetraFi, a modern banking platform designed specifically for service members and veterans. In this episode, we explore the challenges he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and how VetraFi aims to transform financial wellness for those who serve and their families.

🌟 Unlock Your Financial Future with VetraFi! 🌟

"Want a banking service that gets you? Join VetraFi’s waitlist now and start building a stronger financial future! 💸 https://www.vetrafi.com/Veterans - sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on all of our in-person events + hot jobs at www.themilvet.org

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Jim Delaney, a former Naval Officer and founder of Traction AI, shares his career journey and insights on sales, branding, and post military life.

Jim emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit and exploring different paths. He highlighties how crucial sales are to driving business success and the importance of branding. Jim also stresses the value of networking, trusting oneself, and fostering collaboration among sales, marketing, and customer success teams. His insights offer practical advice for anyone navigating similar career changes.

Thank you to our sponsors at NYU Stern School of Business. NYU Stern's MS in Fintechis a one-year, part-time program designed for professionals with an interest in finance or technology who want to gain a cutting-edge skillset and emerge as a leader in fintech. If you are ready to take your career to the next level, please visit stern.nyu.edu/msft to learn more!

Check out how Traction AI can help you and your business grow at https://www.gettraction.ai/

Veterans - sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on all of our in-person events + hot jobs at www.themilvet.org

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In this episode, JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation and retired Army Ranger, shares his thoughts on the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life.

Drawing from his own experiences, he discusses the struggle for purpose and identity and the importance of designing a fulfilling life. JC explains how COMMIT empowers veterans and their families through tools, resources, and personalized support. He emphasizes the vital connection between physical and mental health and invites listeners to support their mission through donations and volunteering.

Tune in to learn how to navigate the transition and find meaning in post-military service.Learn more about COMMIT Foundation and donate to support their work at https://www.commitfoundation.org/

Veterans - sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on all of our in-person events + hot jobs at www.themilvet.org

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On today’s podcast, we talk with Mike Maples Jr. and Peter Ziebelman, Venture Capitalists, Mentors, Leaders, and Instructors of ourselves and most recently, the co-authors of “Pattern Breakers”

We explore intriguing analogies and parallels between the military mindset and startup building. Mike and Peter share valuable insights for founders and military veterans looking to pursue a startup career. We have a special offer for listeners. If you purchase Pattern Breakers then you’ll buy one, and get one FREE for a friend with this link: patternbreakers.com/themilvet

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Welcome to today’s episode featuring retired 4-star Special Operations Commander Richard Clarke. With decades of military experience, General Clarke has developed a leadership style that values ideas from all levels and emphasizes leading authentically. In his transition to the boardroom, he now helps venture capital firms tackle complex challenges and build strong leadership within their portfolios. We’ll explore how his military strategies and leadership principles translate into the business world, offering valuable insights on professional growth and effective leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, this conversation promises actionable advice for navigating and succeeding in your professional journey.

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In this episode, I sit down with Matt Bowman, United States Military Academy West Point Graduate, U.S. Army Special Forces Officer, the innovative CEO & Co-Founder of Autobiographer. We explore Matt’s unique journey from the military to entrepreneurship and delve into how his company, Autobiographer, is transforming the way people capture and preserve their life stories using AI. Whether you’re looking to preserve your life story or intrigued by the intersection of technology and storytelling, Matt sheds light on the future of personal narratives. Matt is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness, adding another layer of depth to his unique journey. This episode has something for everyone so you won't want to miss it!

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In this episode, we sit down with Nate Kouhana , the CEO of Anthem Snacks, A Green Beret, and a decorated Veteran with two bronze star medals and a Purple Heart. Nate's journey from the battlefield to the boardroom is inspiring. Anthem snacks is a company redefining the snack industry with a mission-driven approach. Nate shares his inspiring journey behind Anthem Snacks, a brand built based on a passion for healthy, delicious food and a commitment to supporting the American ranchers. Nate also shares his journey at The Chicago Booth School of Business and the impact higher education had on his success. Nate discusses the challenges of transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, and making a positive impact!

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Richard Haass is the author of “The Bill of Obligations : The Ten Habits of Good Citizens”, a New York Times best-selling book highlighting how we must re-envision citizenship if American democracy is to survive. Richard is an American Diplomat and an expert on international relations. Richard served as the President of the Council on Foreign Relations, a principal advisor to former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, and a special assistant to President George H.W. Bush from 1989 to 1993. Richard was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal for his contributions towards U.S. Policy during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Richard shares his take on strengthening our democracy. You will not want to miss this deep dive!

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Don Faul is the CEO of CrossFit, a Stanford Graduate School of Business alumnus, and a Marine Corps Veteran. His service included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of Force Reconnaissance. Don’s career trajectory showcases the impact of his military background and business education; from his roles as Platoon Commander to his work within Crossfit, revolutionizing health and wellness across the country as a CEO. Don shares his envisionment for Crossfit and the importance of maintaining your mental & physical health. This deep dive into his journey is one you won't want to miss!

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Sebastian Mallaby is the author of “The Power Law”, a best-selling book about the history of venture capital. Sebastian is the Paul Volcker Senior Fellow in International Economics at the Council on Foreign Relations. Sebastian shares his story on how his education at The University of Oxford shaped his writing. He also shares his expertise on Venture capital, Hedge Funds, Private Equity & the Public Sector. You will not want to miss this deep dive!

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Taylor Lorenz, author of “Extremely Online” and renowned technology and internet culture journalist shares her expertise and firsthand experiences from being blocked by one of the most powerful and well-known billionaires, to the dynamics of digital culture, and the importance of building a strong personal brand. You will not want to miss this deep dive!

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Jim Schwab, Founding Partner & Managing Director of CrimStone Partners, discusses his time as an Officer in the US Navy and his career adventures that followed. From consulting for BCG, to deciding he wanted to have his own company and become CEO, his time at the Department of State, then back to entrepreneurship. Jim's career spans many decades and fields and this episode is sure to be filled with great advise and insight.

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Justin Nassiri is the CEO and Founder of Executive Presence, offering a fully managed LinkedIn Presence for CEOs and executive Leaders. Justin discusses his time and transition from the military, his podcast "Beyond the Uniform", bootstrapping, the difficulty of startups, and how important it is for transitioning veterans to build their skills and network.

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Sunny Vanderbeck is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Satori Capital, a multi-strategy investment firm founded on the principles of conscious capitalism. By providing real-world insights from its experienced team and long-term funding with no fixed time constraints, Satori is a true partner for its portfolio companies as it challenges them to pursue extraordinary outcomes for all stakeholder groups. Before becoming a Co-founder, Sunny served as a Section Leader of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and led technical teams at Microsoft.

Sunny and Brendan discuss:

· Sunny's journey from Army Ranger to entrepreneur, including founding and leading Data Return through an IPO and multiple exits.

· The launch of Satori Capital, an alternative asset manager focused on conscious capitalism and indefinite life capital.

· Satori's expansion into private equity, family office, environmental hedge fund, and neurotechnology/psychedelics investments.

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Sunny Vanderbeck is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Satori Capital, a multi-strategy investment firm founded on the principles of conscious capitalism. By providing real-world insights from its experienced team and long-term funding with no fixed time constraints, Satori is a true partner for its portfolio companies as it challenges them to pursue extraordinary outcomes for all stakeholder groups. Before becoming a Co-founder, Sunny served as a Section Leader of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and led technical teams at Microsoft.

Sunny and Brendan discuss:

· Sonny's journey from Army Ranger to entrepreneur, including founding and leading Data Return through an IPO and multiple exits.

· The launch of Satori Capital, an alternative asset manager focused on conscious capitalism and indefinite life capital.

· Satori's expansion into private equity, family office, environmental hedge fund, and neurotechnology/psychedelics investments.

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Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Brendan Aronson, CEO and Co-Founder of The Military Veteran, transitioned out of the Navy six years ago. On this episode of the podcast, Brendan talks about lessons learned from startups, interview tips, and MBA application timelines.

We are sharing an exclusive discount code to the Career Conference in Austin for our podcast listeners. Use code TMVPOD50 for 50% off your ticket!

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Brendan Aronson, CEO and Co-Founder of The Military Veteran, transitioned out of the Navy six years ago. On this episode of the podcast, Brendan reflects and shares some of his key takeaways from his transition.

We are sharing an exclusive discount code to the Career Conference in Austin for our podcast listeners. Use code TMVPOD50 for 50% off your ticket!

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Larsen Jensen is the founder of Harpoon Ventures, an early stage venture capital firm with deep commitment to supporting the next generation of groundbreaking technology. Prior to becoming a Venture Capitalist, Larsen served as a Navy SEAL for six years and was an Olympic medalist for swimming in 2004 and 2008.

Larsen and Brendan discuss:

• His path from being an Olympic medalist to Navy SEAL and now a Founder of a Venture Capital Firm
• Building Mental Tenacity
• How a Venture Capital Fund Works
• The Importance of Differentiation

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Randy Hetrick is the creator of the Suspension Trainer and is the founder of TRX, one of the world’s leading fitness training brands. Over more than three decades, Randy built a record of unique accomplishments including: collegiate athlete; 14-year Navy SEAL Officer; bootstrap entrepreneur; inventor with more than 30 patents; and growth company CEO. Randy is also the Founder and CEO of OutFit, a new mobile training franchise that leverages a sophisticated technology platform to coordinate a network of tricked-out sprinter vans to deliver expertly coached outdoor group fitness and private training to parks, schools, and cul-de-sacs in neighborhoods across America.

Randy and Brendan discuss:

• The Benefits of Franchising
• Evaluating Franchise Opportunities
• The Early Stages of TRX and its Business Model
• Hiring Model and Growing Teams in Startups
• The Importance of Networking and Mentorship for Transitioning Veterans

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*This episode is a recording of our Fireside Chat with Tom Davin and Blake Hall at The MilVet Startups Conference (MVS 24) in San Francisco. To experience conversations like this firsthand, you can register for our events at www.themilvet.org/events

Tom Davin has over 30 years of executive leadership experience as a board member of mission-focused and category defining companies to include Taco Bell, Oakley, Panda Express, 5.11 Tactical, and most recently, Black Rifle Coffee. Prior to transitioning to the business, Tom served in the Marine Corps as an Infantry Officer for six years.

Blake Hall is the Founder and CEO of ID.me. ID.me provides secure identity proofing, authentication, and group affiliation verification for government and businesses across sectors. Blake is an Army veteran, serving as an Infantry Officer for four years.

Tom, Blake, and Tim discuss:

• Finding the right problem to solve when looking for product-market fit
• The importance of adapting as an entrepreneur
• Finding potential in brands and companies
• Applying basic military leadership skills into companies or startups

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Sally Lee is a transitioning Army Officer and a Skillbridge intern for TMV. On this episode of the podcast, Sally joins Brendan in a Q&A session about the upcoming career conference in Austin, TX to include:

• The Intent of the Career Conference
• The Differences Between the Events hosted by TMV
• The Importance of Networking with Fellow Transitioning Veterans
• What to Expect at This Year's Conference

Tickets for The Military Veteran Career Conference are now available at https://www.themilvet.org/events and you can use discount code TMVPOD for 25% off your ticket.

If you have any topics you would like us to cover in the future, please email brendan@themilvet.org and let us know!

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Kathy Borkoski is a military veteran and serves a Product Manager at CrossFit. At CrossFit, Kathy focuses on member generation, conversion and retention to increase gym profitability.

Prior to CrossFit, Kathy served in the Navy specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal. After leaving the Military, Kathy served in numerous project, program, and product management roles at various companies to include Facebook and Twill.

Kathy joins Brendan to discuss:

• Transitioning out of the Military and the Present Day Job Market
• Challenges in Scaling a Business
• Difference between Product, Program, and Project Management
• Balancing the Reserves and Civilian Career
• The Power of the Veteran Community

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Olaseni Bello is a military veteran and serves an Associate General Counsel for product at Intuit. Olaseni partners closely with product, engineering, business development, marketing, operations, and compliance managers on matters ranging from generative AI product features to data privacy to regulatory and cross-border issues.

Prior to Intuit, Olaseni served in the Army as a Judge Advocate General. After leaving the Military, Olaseni served in numerous legal advisor and senior executive roles in both public and private sectors to include Meta, Wells Fargo, and Morgan Stanley.

Olaseni joins Brendan to discuss:

• The path to becoming a JAG officer in the Army and his experience
• Transitioning from the Army to the Civilian sector
• Going to Business School as a Lawyer
• The advantages of experiencing a range of dynamic roles

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Chris Homewood is a military veteran and serves as the Chief Operations Officer and of Valley Services Electronics, a leading contract manufacturing company using cutting-edge PCBA solutions and top-quality systems to serve a wide range of technology companies, worldwide.

Prior to becoming a COO of VSE, Chris served in the Marine Corps as an Artillery Officer. After leaving the Military, Chris served in numerous leadership and executive roles in retail companies to include Target, Ross, and TriMark.

Chris joins Brendan to discuss:

• Evaluating opportunities from linear to divergent and parallel pathways
• Experience working in Retail
• How to manage multiple businesses and operations
• Managing relationships with founders transitioning out of their roles

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Joshua Broder is a military veteran and serves as the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Tilson Infrastructure, a national-leader in utility pole and tower development, and long haul campus fiber for lease-back to telecom carriers and others.

Prior to becoming a CEO, Josh served as an Army Signal Corps Officer on missions in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for service in Afghanistan designing, building, and operating the communications network for US forces.

Follow Josh on LinkedIn and subscribe to his newsletter to access more of his amazing content.

Josh joins Tim to discuss:

• How he went from being an Army Signal Officer to CEO of a telecommunications infrastructure company
• The importance of Skillbridge for transitioning service members
• Why he chooses optimism
• The importance of hiring veterans

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*This episode is a recording of an interview of Brendan on the Mission Oriented Podcast. Brendan talks about the upcoming MilVet Startups Conference and what to expect.

To sign up, go to www.milvetstartups.com and use code TMVPodcast30 for 30% off your ticket.

Are you interested in a SkillBridge opportunity with The Mil Vet? Reach out to sally@themilvet.org to learn more.

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*This episode is a recording of our Vets in Tech Panel at The Military Veteran Career Conference (TMV3) in San Francisco. To experience conversations like this firsthand, you can register for our events at www.themilvet.org/events

This panel, moderated by Brendan, consists of Steve Chiou (PM at Box), Kyle Eberly (PM at Google), Mashon Wilson (Strategy Lead at Google), and Yosef Adiputra (PM at Snap).

In this chat, the panelists discuss

• Their paths to breaking into tech careers
• The significant differences between big tech companies
• How compensation works in the tech world
• What a day in the life of a PM is like

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*This episode is a recording of our Fireside Chat with Graham Weaver at The Military Veteran Career Conference (TMV3) in San Francisco. To experience conversations like this firsthand, you can register for our events at www.themilvet.org/events

Graham Weaver is the founder and managing partner of Alpine Investors, a people-driven private equity firm that invests in software and services businesses. With over 20 years of experience in private equity, Graham founded Alpine based on the belief that exceptional people create exceptional businesses, a People First philosophy that guides the firm’s choices today. When he’s not helping to build Alpine, Graham teaches two courses on entrepreneurship at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business (GSB).

In this chat, Graham and Brendan discuss:

• How Graham's passion for people led him to found Alpine Investors
• Why Graham recommends that people think about their lives on a longer horizon
• Why you should always follow your passion

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Dave Gerhardt is the founder and CEO of Exit Five (exitfive.com), a media company focused on helping B2B marketers build successful careers through community and content.

Before Exit Five, Dave spent over a decade as a marketer working his way up to Chief Brand Officer at Drift and Chief Marketing Officer at Privy.

Follow Dave on LinkedIn and subscribe to his newsletter to access more of his amazing content.

Dave joins Brendan and Tim to discuss:

• How he came to build a career in marketing
• Why side hustles can completely change your career
• What he sees as emerging trends in marketing
• Why he believes that trying to become "well-rounded" can be a waste of time

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Gerta Malaj is a negotiation expert with a professional career that spans big tech (LinkedIn, IBM) to global biotech (Sanofi), startups (3x founder & advisor), and venture capital. Gerta is an angel investor and an LP of a VC Fund. She is also a veteran spouse and holds a Master's in Engineering from MIT.

Gerta has free negotiation downloads on her website at yournegotiations.com. She is also active on LinkedIn and Twitter (@gerta_ma).

Gerta joins Brendan to discuss:

• How a shift in thinking about negotiation can help you secure more compensation
• Common pitfalls when negotiating compensation
• Why salary isn't the only thing you should be worried about
• How and when to prepare for a negotiation to maximize your benefit

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Paul Lawrence is an Army veteran and former Under Secretary of Veteran Benefits at the VA. Paul's professional career spans multiple levels of leadership at consulting firms, but since 2021 he has focused on being a veteran advocate and author. Paul is active on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter), where he shares valuable resources and spotlights veterans and organizations who are contributing to the veteran community.

Paul has published two books following his service as Under Secretary. His most recent work, Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve, is an incredible resource for all veterans looking to better understand their benefits and is a TMV Recommended Read.

Paul joins Brendan to discuss:

• The most effective way to file claims with the VA
• Recent updates to VA Loan guidelines
• How he was nominated as Under Secretary of Benefits at the VA
• How to navigate your relationship with the VA and get what you need

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Sasha Seymore is a co-founder and the COO of Learn to Win, an education technology company based in Redwood City, California, that improves training and onboarding for commercial enterprises, the Department of Defense, and athletic teams and programs. Sasha is also a reserve intelligence officer for the US Navy serving with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), helping the U.S. military make faster use of emerging commercial technologies.

Prior to Learn to Win, Sasha worked as a consultant for McKinsey & Company and played professional basketball in Europe. Sasha received an MBA from Stanford as a Knight-Hennessey scholar, an MA from Queen's University Belfast as a George Mitchell Scholar, and a BA from the University of North Carolina, where he was a Morehead-Cain Scholar, Senior Class President, and Scholar-Athlete of the Year on the men's basketball team. Sasha serves on the National Leadership Council for the Positive Coaching Alliance and was named to the 2022 Forbes 30 under 30 list in Education.

Sasha joins Brendan to discuss:

• How he balances his career in the Navy Reserves with being a startup founder
• How Learn to Win was born from his experience playing college basketball
• The nuances between the military, startups, and careers at larger companies
• His advice for getting the most out of your career post-military

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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David Hunt is a former Naval Aviator and the Founder and CEO of Crossrope.

Crossrope is a company on a mission to inspire millions of people to experience a different way to get fit through jump rope fitness.

Founded in 2012, Crossrope has grown into a leading fitness brand today with many product offerings and over 20,000 positive reviews from customers.

David joins Brendan and Tim to discuss:

• How David got the idea for Crossrope and began his entrepreneurial journey
• How making jump ropes grew into tech and media at Crossrope
• The importance of capitalizing on opportunities in life and business

TMVPod listeners can use code MILVET for 20% off any item at crossrope.com

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Joe Musselman is a Navy Veteran, Founder of The Honor Foundation, and Founder & General Partner at Bravo Victor Venture Capital.

The Honor Foundation is a career transition program for U.S. Special Operations Forces that effectively translates their elite military service to the private sector and helps create the next generation of corporate and community leaders.

Bravo Victor Venture Capital's mission is to find, fund, and follow-on with mission-first founders so the United States and our allies win. It does so by investing in companies to reaffirm America's position as the world's leader in software, hardware, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Joe joins Tim to discuss:

• Why investing in national security is good for the world and for business
• Which skills veteran founders can learn and leverage to become successful
• Why Joe founded the Honor Foundation
• What drew Joe to venture capital after being a non-profit founder

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Chris Robinson is a former Marine Corps pilot and Goldman Sachs M&A banker.

Chris is now the founder and CEO of Clearyst, a sustainability value platform consisting of several product lines developed by subsidiary companies.

Chris joins Brendan to discuss:

• His experience in an Executive MBA program
• Ways in which transitioning veterans can "crack the code" of the business world
• His thoughts on skill development and key pillars of professional success
• How Clearyst leverages a new way of thinking with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Major General Gregg Martin served in the Army for 36 years and now works as a mental health advocate. Known also as the Bipolar General, MG Martin was medically retired due to his condition. He recently authored a book titled Bipolar General: My Forever War with Mental Illness.

In this episode, MG Martin joins Brendan to discuss

• How he found out he had bipolar disorder
• His journey to living with and managing the illness
• His views on mental health treatment in the military and the VA

You can learn more about about Major General Martin at generalgreggmartin.com and order his new book, Bipolar General: My Forever War with Mental Illness at your favorite place to buy books.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Kris Sandor is a former Navy Submarine Officer, McKinsey Associate, and CEO of of Citi Bike (acquired by Lyft).

Kris is now the co-founder and CEO of Readyly, a company that deploys Generative AI and automation to accelerate customer support for mid-market companies.

Kris joins Brendan to discuss:

• The value of working for a large firm and how that is crucial to succeeding in the startup world
• Why search funds are such a risky undertaking
• A primer on tech jobs and culture, and what project management really is
• What gaps between the military and business world that veterans should keep in mind

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Jen Sovada is a retired Air Force officer and the President of Public Sector at SandboxAQ.

SandboxAQ is an enterprise SaaS company combining AI + Quantum tech to solve hard problems impacting society. Their solutions include post-RSA cybersecurity modules that migrate enterprises to higher levels of security, quantum sensing software and hardware and the ability to simulate and optimize data.

Luke joins Brendan to discuss:

• Jen's unique perspective on transition timeline
• Why focusing on your passions leads to career satisfaction
• How government is changing to benefit small business innovation
• Why the dual-use industry can be so attractive to veterans

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Luke Hutchison is a former Army officer and the Founder & CEO of Perfect Venue. Perfect Venue helps restaurants easily organize their events in one place to save time, increase sales, and streamline operations with the #1 event management software for independent restaurants & hospitality groups. The company has been featured in Tech Crunch, Fortune, and others.

Luke joins Brendan to discuss:

• His journey of simultaneously transitioning out of the military and founding a startup
• What founders should seek to do before raising external funding
• How to maximize your chances of finding the right investors for your business
• The value of working in the startup ecosystem

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Loree Draude was one of the first women to fly combat jets in the U.S. Navy. She deployed twice to the Persian Gulf and accumulated over 300 carrier landings. After completing her naval service, Loree earned her MBA at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She spent 20 years in Silicon Valley, leading teams at startups and tech companies, including Google and Facebook. Loree is now an executive coach, leadership trainer and motivational speaker. Loree is also the author of the bestselling book She's Just Another Navy Pilot.

In this episode, Loree joins Brendan to discuss

• Deciding between theater school and business school during transition
• Successes and failures working at startups
• Her careers at Google and Facebook
• Why she pivoted to become a bestselling author and coach

You can learn more about about Loree at loreedraude.com and order her new book, Soar Into Joy at your favorite place to buy books.

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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This episode is a cross-post from Brendan's recent appearance on The Scuttlebutt Podcast.

In this episode, Brock Briggs hosts Brendan Aronson on the Scuttlebutt Podcast. Brendan is a former Marine Corps infantry officer, co-founder and CEO of The Military Veteran, and associate at Context Ventures.

In this conversation, Brendan talks about building a company exclusively aimed at transitioning vets, the different business models TMV is pursuing, the pros and cons of B2B and B2C sales, and why bootstrapping is right for most entrepreneurs.

Brock and Brendan also explore some of the traits that Brendan sees in the highest-performing veterans in business, and what leads to the most successful outcomes. They also discuss the science of networking, how to conduct effective outreach, and how to be a giver when you have nothing to give.

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Jonathan (JD) Due is a retired Army Armor Officer and the Executive Director of the Center for Military Transition at William & Mary. The Center for Military Transition is a one-of-a-kind program with a mission to be the national leader in helping veterans transition into and succeed in high-level civilian management positions.

JD joins Brendan to discuss:

• The unique challenges that retiring service members face
• How networking and introspection led him to a fulfilling civilian career
• Education resources for veterans and transitioning service members
• The unique offerings that the Center of Military Transition has to help veterans thrive in education and in civilian life

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Frank Scappaticci is Co-Owner and Partner at Gray Line Investments. After graduating from West Point and serving as a Field Artillery Officer in the Army, Frank transitioned into various roles in banking and consulting. In 2020, partially driven by the enjoyment of buying his own home, Frank began investing into real estate. Eventually, Frank co-founded Gray Line Investments, a real estate investment firm that specializes in syndicating commercial real estate and storage units.

Frank joins Brendan to discuss:

• His journey from the Army to consulting, banking, and finally real estate
• The similarities and differences between various asset classes
• How syndication works
• His thoughts on the current real estate market and where it's headed

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Wes Going is a Senior Engagement Manager at L.E.K. Consulting. After serving six years in the US Navy, Wes attended NYU Stern School of Business. Following business school, Wes joined L.E.K. and has built a successful career there.

Wes joins Brendan to discuss:

• How to prep for consulting interviews
• What it's like to be a strategy consultant
• Why and how to examine your fit within a consulting firm
• The skills he has gained and the impact he's had while working as a consultant

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Shawn Banzhaf is a published author, a retired Army Sergeant First Class, a former police officer and pastor, and the Executive Director of the Arizona State University Pat Tillman Veteran Center. To say that Shawn has a wealth of wisdom is an understatement.

Shawn joins Brendan to discuss:

• His journey with trauma and how it led to his book
• Higher education resources for veterans
• How higher education can ignite new passions after service
• Tips on how to navigate college as a veteran

Check out Shawn's book, The Five Ls: A Practical Guide for Helping Loved Ones Heal After Trauma

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Christian Grant and Tom Marchant have over 25 years of combined consulting experience and over 20 years of military experience in the Army and Marine Corps. 

Both guests have built exceptional careers at Deloitte. Christian currently works as a Principal focused on utilities and renewable energy and Tom as a Senior Manager in Mergers and Acquisitions.  

Christian and Grant join Brendan to discuss:

• What attracted them to consulting, and what has kept them at Deloitte
• The myriad of career options available at Deloitte
• Why veterans are successful consultants
• The number of programs Deloitte has to help you get hired

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Gerry Byrne is an entrepreneur and communications executive who has extensive experience in launching and managing global media enterprises across sectors that include advertising, marketing, media, entertainment, fashion, and retail. He is the Vice Chairman and Board Member of the Penske Media Corporation. A Marine officer and a Vietnam veteran, Gerry is also committed to giving back to the community. He is the CEO/Co-Founder of Warriors Rise (2022), a VSO focused on Veterans employment.

Gerry joins Brendan to discuss:

• What it was like to find a career as a veteran following Vietnam
• How media has changed in the 21st century - and how it hasn't
• What it's like to advise and manage massive media companies

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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JD Modrak is the Director of Portfolio Operations East at Kasa. After earning his MBA from Chicago Booth, JD began his career working in Strategy at United Airlines. JD then pivoted into the startup world to find the intersection of his passions for leading small teams and real estate.

JD joins Brendan to discuss:

• His journey to the startup world, and the pros/cons of working in startups
• How his grad school side hustle transformed into his passion
• Why owning profit and loss is a superpower
• His recommendations on framing life to maximize happiness

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Welcome to the newest TMV Pod format!

In this episode, Brendan, Alexis, and Blake come to you live from San Francisco to discuss a question nearly every veteran has to answer  - Should I stay in or get out? All bases are covered in this episode as we have one person on their way to military retirement, one veteran, and one who transitioned from active duty to the reserve component.

The Mil Vet team covers:

• How they framed their decision and at what point(s) they considered it
• The costs and benefits of staying in and getting out
• What obstacles they've faced due to their decision
• Advice on resources to help inform your own decision

The "From my Foxhole" series is designed to discuss some of the most common decisions that transitioning servicemembers must consider as they make the leap to the civilian workplace. You'll get to hear the perspectives of other veterans as they discuss how they approached the topic, why they made a certain decision, and the pros and cons associated with it.

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Garrett Smith is the Founder and CEO of Reveal, a defense tech software company that pairs with ISR platforms to create 2D/3D maps and performs analytics on aerial data, deployed on mobile devices at the edge. 

Garrett is a former active duty Force Recon Marine and currently serves in the Marine Corps Reserve. Garrett is an alum of BYU and Stanford GSB.

Garrett joins TMV Co-founder Tim Hsia to discuss:

• The benefits of continuing service in the Reserves
• The value of living what Garrett calls a "varied life" of experiences
• What it's like to launch and operate a Defense Tech Startup
• Best practices for maximizing health and wellness as a veteran

Learn More about Reveal at https://www.revealtech.ai/

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Aaron Kline is the Co-founder and COO of Boom & Bucket, a heavy equipment marketplace business based in Austin, TX. Aaron is a former Naval Aviator and Stanford GSB alum.

Boom & Bucket was founded in 2020 and provides advertising, financial transfer, and pricing for buyers and sellers of heavy equipment.

Aaron joins TMV Co-founder Tim Hsia to discuss:

• Transition out of the military
• Thoughts on business school as a transition strategy
• The challenges of keeping up with technology as a startup founder
• What it's like to operate in the heavy equipment industry

You can find more about Boom & Bucket and Aaron at

• Aaron's Linkedin or email at aaron@boomandbucket.com
• Adam Lawrence's (Co-founder & CEO) Linkedin
• Boom & Bucket's website and values at http://www.boomandbucket.com/values
• Boom & Bucket Tiktok at https://www.tiktok.com/@boomandbucket

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Niha Singhal is the Assistant Dean, Global Executive Degree Programs at the NYU's Stern School of Business. Niha has an MBA from Harvard and has worked in talent acquisition and professional development for nearly 20 years. Niha has served as NYU Stern's Assistant Dean since 2011. 

Neha joins Brendan to discuss 

• Traditional and brand-new educational opportunities at NYU Stern
• The differences and similarities between full-time and executive MBA programs
• How veterans can benefit from business education
• Thoughts on admissions and career opportunities

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Larry Smith is an Army veteran who currently serves as the Chairman of the Board at Tokyo Electron. Tokyo Electron is one of the world's largest suppliers of chipmaking equipment and is at the center of international strategic initiatives surrounding the industry. 

Larry joins Brendan to discuss 

• How he ended up in his first post-military job (which he originally had no interest in)
• What skills he leveraged to become a business leader
• His passion for helping reduce veteran homelessness
• Career opportunities for veterans in the semiconductor industry

Larry will also be joining us in September 2023 as the keynote speaker for NYC Mil Vet Career Conference.

Tap here for more info. 

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Welcome to the newest TMV Pod format!

The "From my Foxhole" series is designed to discuss some of the most common decisions that transitioning servicemembers must consider as they make the leap to the civilian workplace. You'll get to hear the perspectives of other veterans as they discuss how they approached the topic, why they made a certain decision, and the pros and cons associated with it.

In this episode, Brendan sits down with Alexis and Blake, two TMV interns, to discuss a question nearly every transitioning servicemember considers - Should I go straight to the workforce, or go to school?

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Morgan Hitzig is a Navy Reserves Officer and the Operations & Growth Strategy Lead at Peregrine, a tech startup whose mission is to create technology to help mission-critical government institutions make data-driven decisions, power real-time operations, and strengthen community relationships. Morgan is an alum of Johns Hopkins University. 

Morgan joins Brendan to discuss life in the startup space, the pros and cons of dual-use companies, and doing work that you're passionate about. 

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Dr. Chris Howard is a retired Air Force Pilot and Intelligence Officer, and a graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Harvard Business School, and a Rhodes Scholar. Dr. Howard now serves as the COO of Arizona State University after making the jump from the corporate world to education nearly twenty years ago. 

Dr. Howard joins Brendan to discuss transition, navigating post-military careers, and what the business of education is like. 

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brandon_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Riley Rees is a retired Air Force C-17 pilot, MIT Sloan graduate, and Founder & CEO of Sofia Health. Sofia Health is an online marketplace connecting consumers to health and wellness practitioners, and its mission is to make it easier for people to connect with health and wellness professionals.  

Riley joins Brendan to discuss how cool it is to fly C-17s, how injuries and ailments from her time in service led her to become a startup founder, and her recommendations for living a healthy life.

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brandon_aronson
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Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Marine Corps Veteran Vineet Rajan is a Stanford GSB Alum and Co-Founder & CEO of Forte - a mental wellness employee platform that provides Content and Connections so employees can uniquely and meaningfully contribute at work, home, and in their community.

Vineet joins Brendan to discuss the period of industry discovery he went through during business school, what it was like to execute a search fund during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how and why he decided to start a mental wellness company. 

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brandon_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Marine Corps Veteran Nate Jester is a Real Estate Lawyer in Atlanta, GA and is an alum of USNA and Harvard Law School. 

Nate joins Brendan to discuss all stages of pursuing law, from applying to law school, to what life is like at law school, and opportunities afterward. Nate also provides some great insight into how intimidating the transition out of the military can be, and the value of volunteering in your community. 

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brandon_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
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Service to School is hosting its first VetLink Summit on June 23rd and 24th at the University of Chicago!

You will meet current students, alumni, and representatives from more than 20 colleges and universities at the event.

To register, visit https://www.service2school.org/vetlink-summit or register through their linktree on Instagram @service2school

_________________

On day one, you will learn how veterans have succeeded in applying to VetLink schools, made an impact on campus, and used the degree to launch their careers.

On day two, you will hear from top graduate schools and veteran professionals on how VetLink students can use their experience to succeed in their next career step. 

_________________

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brandon_aronson
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Recently, Brendan was invited as a guest on the Service to School Stories Podcast. Service to School is an outstanding non-profit and an organization that we are proud to call a friend of The Mil Vet.

In this episode, Brendan discusses his experience as an entrepreneur, his thoughts on transitioning from the military to the business sector and deciding whether an MBA is right for you, the power of networking, and more!

Be sure to listen in to hear Brendan and Alec Emmert discuss the commonalities and differences between common post-MBA career paths and excellent summaries on various career fields. 

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Army Veteran MaShon Wilson is a Strategy and Business Operations Lead at Google, specializing in Go-to-Market, Ads Policy, and Growth Strategies. MaShon graduated with an M.B.A. from Duke University and B.S. from U.S. Military Academy at WestPoint.

MaShon joins us this week to discuss his own transitions, first from the military to an MBA program and consulting, and then from consulting to tech. MaShon provides excellent insight into what it's like to "make the jump" into the tech world, and how he built the skills necessary to become a Strategy Lead at Google. 

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Henry Ward sits down with Quil Lawrence in front of a live crowd at The Mil Vet Startup Conference to discuss military service, Henry's path to tech and entrepreneurship, and the future of work and compensation, among other topics.

If you enjoy this episode, join us at The Military Veteran Career Conferences or the Mil Vet Startup Conference to hear more successful veteran speakers and connect with other vets like you.

Henry Ward is the CEO and co-founder of Carta. The company is trusted by more than 30,000 companies, over 5,000 investment funds, and half a million employees for cap table management, compensation management, liquidity venture capital solutions, and more. Carta’s liquidity solutions have returned $13B to shareholders in secondary transactions. The company has been included on the Forbes World’s Best Cloud Companies, Fast Company’s Most Innovative list, and Inc.’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies. Prior to Carta, Henry was founder and CEO of Secondsight, a portfolio optimization platform for retail investors. He also held leadership positions at software companies including Reddwerks Inc. and BetweenMarkets. Henry graduated from University of Michigan with a BGS in Mathematics and Computer Science and holds a MSC in Market Finance from EDHEC Business School.

Quil Lawrence is a New York-based correspondent for NPR News, covering veterans' issues nationwide. He won a Robert F. Kennedy Award for his coverage of American veterans and a Gracie Award for coverage of female combat veterans. In 2019 Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America honored Quil with its IAVA Salutes Award for Leadership in Journalism. In the Spring of 2000, a Pew Fellowship sponsored his first trips to Iraq — that reporting experience eventually built the foundation for his first book, Invisible Nation: How the Kurds' Quest for Statehood is Shaping Iraq and the Middle East (Bloomsbury, 2009). Lawrence has reported from throughout the Arab world and from Sudan, Cuba, Pakistan, Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank. He covered Iraq and Afghanistan for twelve years, serving as NPR's Bureau Chief in Baghdad and Kabul. He covered the fall of the Taliban in 2001, the invasion of Iraq in 2003, the second battle of Fallujah in 2004, as well as politics, culture, and war in both countries. In 2012, Lawrence returned to the U.S. to cover the millions of men and women who have served at war, both recently and in past generations. NPR is possibly unique among major news organizations in dedicating a full-time correspondent to veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs. A native of Maine, Lawrence studied history at Brandeis University, with concentrations in the Middle East and Latin America. He is fluent in Spanish and conversant in Arabic.

This chat was originally recorded on February 2nd, 2023. The video recording can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koAYWU6DurE

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Rob Huberty is a Navy SEA veteran, Wharton Alum, and co-founder of ZeroEyes. ZeroEyes is an AI weapons detection platform that identifies visible guns and provides schools, commercial buildings, and government sites with the best possible reaction time to threats. 

Rob joins Brendan to discuss his career as a Navy SEAL, the impact that gun violence has had on his life, and how he found his new mission after leaving the SEALs. Rob also provides exceptional commentary on how he views success and fulfillment in a career. 

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David Kim is a former Army officer and West Point and Harvard Business School alum. Since leaving the Army, David has spent nearly 20 years in the Private Equity industry. He is currently the Co-head of Investor Relations at Apax Partners. 

In 2002, David and his wife founded Children of Fallen Patriots (https://www.fallenpatriots.org), a non-profit that seeks to provide college scholarships to every American child who has lost a parent in the line of duty. 

David joins Brendan to discuss his transition out of the military, the private equity industry and raising capital, and the Children of Fallen Patriots mission. 

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Nick Lodestro is a Marine Corps veteran and founder of VetEvolve. VetEvolve is a company that provides industry know-how and reliable support to veterinary teams, enabling them to deliver exceptional patient care.

Nick joins Brendan to discuss his transition from the Marines, the invaluable experience he gained in his first civilian job, and how he leveraged that experience to become a successful entrepreneur. Nick also discusses what it's like to introduce institutional investment into a company, and provides great insight into entrepreneurship through acquisition. 

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Ryan Green is a USNA Alum and Navy veteran. After leaving the Navy, Ryan founded Gridwise. Gridwise exists to fix pain points and make gig drivers’ lives and jobs more productive and fulfilling.

Ryan joins Brendan to discuss his journey in entrepreneurship, from starting a company while he was at the Naval Academy, to bringing Gridwise from an idea to a successful company. Ryan's recount of Gridwise's origins is a fascinating look at how a founder forms an idea and the process of building it into a product. 

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Catharine Parnell is a former active duty JAG officer, and alum of the Fordham University School of Law. Since leaving the Army, Catharine spent time working with the Department of Justice, and is now serves as an internal legal counsel for Skyloom. Skyloom is a cutting-edge telecommunications company building interplanetary networks.

Catharine joins Brendan to discuss her journey to the Army after law school, as well as her transition out of the Army. Catharine and Brendan also discuss career options for lawyers, what it's like to work for a startup, and how The Mil Vet Career Conferences helped Catharine get to where she is now. 

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Scott Harrington is a former Apache pilot and West Point and Michigan Ross alum. Since leaving the Army, Scott has spent significant time working at Mckinsey & Co and Bridgewater Associates in various roles. Leveraging his wealth of experience, Scott now advises early stage startups. 

Scott joins Brendan to discuss his transition out of the military, his experiences working at two premier firms, and provides incredible insight into institutional investing and capital markets. 

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Patrick Murphy was the first Iraq War Veteran elected to congress, served as the 32nd Under Secretary of the Army, and now invests in veteran entrepreneurs and lectures at the Wharton School. 

Patrick joins Brendan to discuss his path from the Army to the Capitol, finding a purpose outside of uniform, playing basketball with the President, and the power of investing in the success of veterans. 

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Chase Hobby is a former Naval Aviator and an alum of USNA and The Wharton School of Business. In 2020, Chase Co-Founded VRB Labs with his classmate Evan Seale while in business school. 

Chase joins Brendan to discuss transition, health, adventure, and entrepreneurship. Chase talks in depth about his desire to lead a life he can be proud of, and how entrepreneurship is synonymous with his philosophy. 

VRB Labs develops tactical solutions for sleep, stress, and pain so that you can focus your efforts where it matters most - living an optimal life. 

You can find Chase on LinkedIn, visit VRBlabs.com, and follow @VRB_Labs on Instagram.

With code: TMV, listeners can get 20% off their first order from VRBLabs.com 

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Bob Pragada is a USNA and Stanford GSB alum who has had an illustrious career in business after serving in the Navy for nearly a decade. Most of his civilian career has been spent in various roles at Jacobs Solutions, Inc, an international technical professional services firm. In 2023, Bob was promoted to CEO of the company. 

Bob joins Brendan & Tim to reflect on many things, including service, business, and leadership.

You can find Phillip on LinkedIn or find his profile on the New Politics Leadership Academy website at https://www.newpoliticsacademy.org/phillip-jones

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Phillip Jones is a former Marine, and an alum of USNA, HBS, and Harvard Kennedy School. In January of 2023, Phillip was elected as Mayor of Newport News, Virginia, making him the youngest mayor in the state's history. 

Phillip joins Brendan to discuss his decision to continue public service after his transition from the Marine Corps, what it's like to run for and be elected to office, and how being a Marine helped him face significant crisis early in his term. 

You can find Phillip on LinkedIn or find his profile on the New Politics Leadership Academy website at https://www.newpoliticsacademy.org/phillip-jones

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Derek Herrera is a USNA Alum, and former Marine Raider who became paralyzed while deployed to Afghanistan. After transitioning from the Marine Corps, Derek went through a period of reinvention and has since founded multiple startups in the medical space. Derek is currently the Founder and CEO of Bright Uro. 

Derek joins Brendan to discuss all manners of transition - military to civilian, personal reinvention, and startup to startup. Derek also discusses valuable entrepreneurship topics centering on how to know when one should become a founder. 

You can find Derek on LinkedIn or at https://derekherrera.com/ and find more information about Bright Uro at https://brighturo.com/

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Jeremy Smith is a Marshall Scholar, West Point Alum, and Former Army Officer who is the Founder and CEO of Civitech - a company that develops technology and data products that help local governments better serve their community to create a fairer, more equitable democracy.

Jeremy joins Brendan to discuss his transition from the military to becoming a startup founder. He also talks in-depth about his winding path to entrepreneurship, the problems that Civitech seeks to solve, and what life is like as an entrepreneur. 

You can find Jeremy on LinkedIn and find more information about Civitech at https://civitech.io/

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Beau Higgins is a retired Marine Officer who has helped build Amazon's military recruitment efforts since 2016. He is currently the Senior Manager of Military Talent Acquisition at Amazon.

Beau joins Brendan to discuss his retirement from the USMC and the lessons learned along the way. He also talks in-depth about career opportunities at Amazon, the company's culture, and what it's like to work for a trillion-dollar company that works like a startup.

You can find Beau on LinkedIn, and learn more about Amazon's Military Recruiting Program and events at https://amazonmilitarywebinarseries.splashthat.com/

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Sherman Williams is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and U Chicago Booth who has built a successful career in Venture Capital. Sherman is currently a Managing Partner at Academy Investor Network (AIN) Ventures. 

Sherman joins Brendan to discuss his path to venture capital, the intricacies of the industry, and the experience of launching his own fund.

You can find Sherman and AIN Ventures on LinkedIn, Twitter, or ainventures.com

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Laurina Sousa is a 15-year Air Force Veteran who pivoted into recruiting following her time in uniform.  Connect with Laurina on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurina-sousa/ - and don't forget to use the "add a note" feature in your invitation!

Laurina joins Brendan to discuss her recommendations for building a resume, how to maximize your LinkedIn profile, and interview tips based on her years of experience as a recruiter in the tech industry. 

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Jon Macaskill is a retired Navy SEAL, speaker, co-host of the Men Talking Mindfulness Podcast, and mindfulness teacher.  Find more about Jon and his work at https://linktr.ee/JonMacaskill. 

Jon joins Brendan to discuss topics ranging from military to civilian life transition, his journey towards mindfulness and meditation, and preparing oneself for life's challenges. 

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Marine Corps Veteran and Actuate CEO Sonny Tai joins Brendan to discuss a wide range of topics. From Marine OCS, to the true value of an MBA program, to the pros and cons of various corporate careers, this episode covers many aspects of the military to civilian transition. 

Sonny Tai is an alumnus of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and according to his bio is a "Former Marine Corps Officer and mediocre startup CEO who has achieved a modicum of success by surrounding myself with talented, committed, and passionate people who believe in our mission."

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JD Kameen, Co-Founder and current Director of Development of Paintrue joins Brendan to discuss founding Paintru, the challenges of entrepreneurship, military transition, and real estate investment. 

JD Kameen is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy  and served in the U.S. Marine Corps. JD is the Co-Founder of Paintru, a company which offers museum quality artwork at a revolutionary price, while reconnecting people with their favorite images.  

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Pat Dossett, Co-Founder and CEO of Madefor joins Brendan to discuss military transition, business school, and charting a path in the civilian world, among other topics. 

Pat Dossett is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, the Wharton School of Business, and served in the U.S. Navy SEALs. Pat is the Co-Founder and CEO of Madefor, a wellness company that provides an action plan based on science-backed methods for taking control of your life. 

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Devon Van Buren is a Workforce Transformation Director at Price Waterhouse Cooper. She has served in all three branches of the U.S. Army (National Guard, USAR, Active Duty) as a military intelligence officer.

In addition to wearing the hat of consultant, Devon is also a military spouse, mom, Army Reservist, and graduate student at Louisiana State University.

Devon talks with our intern, Amber Sims, about management consulting, work-life balance, and the cultural challenges of transitioning from active duty to the civilian workforce.

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Dan Green has had a legendary career in tech - he's worked for the biggest companies in the world from Google to Twitter. Today he's a senior VP at Impossible Foods. 

This was among the more interesting conversations of 2022 - Dan has a unique and incredibly valuable perspective on life,  business, and career transitions. Enjoy!

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Christine Schwartz is the CEO of Service to School, a non-profit that helps veterans apply to higher education. Service to school is dedicated to helping enlisted veterans matriculate in undergraduate universities, and also helps with graduate school admissions. 

Christine talks to us about the application process, timelines, and best practices. We hope you enjoy!

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Rob Schroder joins my co-founder, Tim Hsia, on today's podcast for a conversation about entrepreneurship, public service, and running a business. 

Rob spent attended the US Naval Academy and flew jets in the Marine Corps for 20 years before retiring. Since leaving the military, Rob has had a very successful career in entrepreneurship as the founder and CEO of Steerbridge, an IT consulting business. 

Rob has worked on the US Chamber of commerce for nearly a decade, and gives his advice to transitioning servicemembers on networking and giving back. 

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Nelson Collet graduated from Princeton University and became an Army National Guard soldier. He worked in investment banking prior to recruiting for private equity. 

Nelson talks to us about the investment banking recruiting process for undergraduate students, how the private equity recruiting process works, and how veterans can build a career on Wall Street. 

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George Dutile served for 8 years as a Marine, then 8 years with the SEAL teams. He attended Wharton for an MBA, then worked in private wealth at Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan Chase. He is a co-founder and managing partner at Brydon Group, a $100m fund that invests in military veteran search fund entrepreneurs.