The Startup Defense

 Callye Keen talks with Luke Fischer, CEO and co-founder of SkyFi, about democratizing satellite technology. Luke shares his journey from military service to tech entrepreneurship, detailing the innovations at SkyFi that make satellite imagery and data more accessible and affordable. They discuss into the challenges of satellite technology, the future of the industry, and Luke's role in the upcomi...

Greg Davis, founder of Overwatch Imaging, shares insights into his journey from working in large aerospace companies to starting his own venture. He discusses the importance of community, collaboration, and partnerships in the defense tech industry, as well as the innovative solutions Overwatch is developing to automate overhead intelligence collection. Greg emphasizes the challenges of building a...

In this episode of The Startup Defense , Callye Keen sits down with Dan Magy, exited founder and CEO of Firestorm, to explore the future of UAVs, the reindustrialization of America, and the challenges of defense innovation. They dive into the evolving role of drones in modern warfare, the barriers faced by smaller defense companies, and how Firestorm is revolutionizing manufacturing at scale for d...

In this episode of The Startup Defense , host Callye Keen talks with David Schiff from the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN). They explore David's extensive work in defense innovation and discuss the crucial programs and opportunities available for innovators looking to contribute to national security. David shares insights on fostering collaboration across different sectors, the signifi...

In this episode of The Startup Defense , host Callye Keen sits down with James Parker from Leonid Capital Partners to dive deep into the financial strategies essential for defense startups. They discuss the crucial phase of avoiding the dreaded "Valley of Death," where many promising startups falter. James shares insights on leveraging government contracts for non-dilutive funding, the importance...

In this episode of Startup Defense, host Callye Keen welcomes Graham Plaster, the Director of Nautilus at Defensewerx. Graham discusses his passion for bridging the gap between American innovators and warfighters, sharing insights into his journey from the military to defense innovation. He explains how his background and entrepreneurial spirit led him to play a pivotal role in fostering collabora...

On this episode of The Startup Defense, Callye Keen speaks with Brandon Tseng, former Navy SEAL and co-founder of Shield AI, a company at the forefront of defense technology, specializing in AI-driven autonomous systems. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of AI from concept to implementation in military aviation, including autonomous F-16 dogfights and the broader implications f...

Callye Keen speaks with William Treseder, Chief Strategy Officer at the Marine Innovation Unit and SVP at BMNT, a pivotal organization in the defense innovation space. William shares insights from his diverse career, discussing everything from 3D printing with his kids to complex defense contracting and the changing landscape of defense technology innovation. Key Topics Discussed: Journey into Def...

Episode Summary: In this episode of "The Startup Defense," Callye Keen sits down with Larsen Jensen, a former SEAL and Olympic athlete, who is making significant strides in the world of impact investing through his work with Harpoon. Larsen discusses his journey from a rural upbringing through elite athletics and military service to becoming a pivotal figure in defense-focused venture capital. He...

In this episode, Robert Shelton, a retired tech industry professional, discusses his passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on various industries. He shares his background working at Microsoft and the company's role in the AI revolution. Shelton also highlights the transformation of the tech industry in the federal space, particularly in national security and intelligence. He emph...

This conversation explores the shift from manufacturing in China to Mexico, particularly in the context of the Southern California manufacturing renaissance. The guest, Terry Arbaugh, discusses the benefits of manufacturing in Mexico, including proximity to the US market and the ability to work closely with customers. The conversation also touches on the opportunities in defense tech and the poten...

Welcome back to The Startup Defense, in this week’s episode Callye Keen talks with John Ferry about innovation in government contracting. Ferry shares his background from military service to working acquisitions. Topic Highlights: [00:00] Introduce John Ferry Callye Keen introduces John Ferry, CEO of UseRogue.com, an organization blazing the trail of applying AI to the GovCon industry.  [02:12] Th...

Dave Sterling of Royce Geo and Callye Keen (Kform) discuss the fusion of commercial technology, complex data, and national security. Sterling's unique perspective on the intersection of defense, technology, and startup culture offers invaluable insights for innovators and leaders in the defense sector. Topic Highlights: [00:00] Introduce Dave Sterling Callye Keen introduces Dave Sterling, CEO of R...

In EP032 of "The Startup Defense," host Callye Keen engages with Roy Edwards, an expert in business automation and remote work. This insightful dialogue delves into the nuances of integrating AI and automation in both government agencies and commercial businesses. Topic Highlights: [00:00] Introduce Roy Edwards  Callye Keen introduces Roy Edwards, President & Chief Operations Officer at Capita...

In the riveting EP031 of "The Startup Defense," host Callye Keen engages with Eric Frahm from Gallium Solutions. This episode unveils the transformative trends in defense innovation, focusing on the integration of commercial technology into national defense. They explore the significant role of dual-use technologies and the evolving landscape of defense startups. Frahm, with his insights from AFWE...

Join host Callye Keen in an insightful conversation with Brandon Shelton, founder of  TFX Capital, as they delve into the unique world of venture capital, resilience, and the unparalleled qualities of veteran entrepreneurs. Discover the essence of entrepreneurial success and how military backgrounds foster resilience in the business arena. Topic Highlights: [00:00] Introduce Brandon Shelton Callye...

In this engaging episode of "The Startup Defense," Callye Keen delves into the fascinating realm of AI and generative modeling in the manufacturing and defense sectors with Terry Miller. Discover how AI technologies are reshaping industries and the challenges they face. Dive deep into the vital importance of defining clear problems before seeking technical solutions. Topic Highlights: [00:00] Intr...

In this episode, Callye Keen engages with Mark Holden, a defense innovation expert in an insightful discussion on innovation in the defense industry. They delve into the challenges and opportunities within the defense industrial base, addressing topics such as scaling the force, modernization priorities, and the need for technological advancements in the ever-evolving landscape of great power comp...

Join host Callye Keen in this insightful episode featuring Sean Matson, co-founder of MATBOCK. Sean's journey from a Navy SEAL to a successful entrepreneur is both inspiring and educational. Together, they discuss the intricacies of innovation, product development, and the defense industry. Topic Highlights: [00:00] - A Message from Host Callye Keen Callye shares with the audience a message regard...

In this episode of "The Startup Defense," hosted by Callye Keen, we delve into the complex world of cybersecurity and defense innovation. Joined by cybersecurity expert Zach Walker, the discussion revolves around the evolving landscape of security regulations, including the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).  Topic Highlights: [00:00] - Introduce Zach Walker Callye Keen introduces...

Callye Keen engages in an educational conversation with Art Trevethan, unraveling the intricate layers of defense innovation, entrepreneurship, and the intersection of the private sector with the military. Trevethan, equipped with years of experience and insights, demystifies the path of innovations from conception to the hands of warfighters, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration, underst...

What happens when Silicon Valley intersects with the defense industry? Host Callye Keen and guest Andrew Glenn set out to answer this question. Andrew's unique perspective on the evolving relationship between tech startups and the defense industry provides valuable insight into a sector that's paving the way for exciting collaborations and potential disruptors. The conversation blends robust exper...

Callye Keen sits down with Matt Zimmermann and John McCrea from Beast Code to dive into the evolving landscape of defense technology. They explore the integration and interoperability of systems, and opportunities for startups entering defense. Their discussion touches on the power of digital twins, the challenge of siloed data, and the possibilities opened up by breaking down informational barrie...

Callye Keen sits down with the insightful Brad Halsey to delve into the dynamics of modern technological advancements, from the power of speed in combat scenarios to the innovation bootcamps reshaping military and tech landscapes.  Topic Highlights: 00:00 - Introducing Brad Halsey Callye Keen introduces Brad Halsey, CEO and co-founder of Building Momentum, an organization that offers world class c...

Callye Keen and Tim Tutt navigate the intricate landscape of data analytics. Highlighting the latent promise of expansive datasets, they illuminate how businesses, especially within tech and government, can capitalize, monetize, and unearth valuable insights from the data that often goes unnoticed. Topic Highlights: 00:00 - Introducing Tim Tutt Callye Keen introduces Tim Tutt, CEO and Cofounder of...