The Startup Defense

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 KeenCallye shares with the audience a message regarding his audio quality. This was an important podcast to release, so while Callye’s audio quality is slightly degraded, Guest Sean Matson’s is good.[00:46] - Introduce Sean MatsonCallye Keen introduces Sean Matson, Co-founder MATBOCK, an organization that helps To Bring Disruptive Technologies to The Market and Empower Others in Our Journey.[08:20] - The Power of PrototypingThe importance of building prototypes, no matter how rudimentary they may seem. [16:29] - Bootstrapping Your StartupThe benefits of self-funding and taking a hands-on approach to reduce costs.[18:35] - Innovative Product DevelopmentMATBOCK's unique approach to creating products that stand out in the defense industry [00:25:31] - Starting Small and Scaling UpThe value of starting with minimal resources and gradually expanding.[31:13] - The Key to Successful PitchesSean's advice on crafting a pitch deck that's concise, informative, and captivating."As a startup, you have to start somewhere. You have to start moving in that path. Give me a prototype. I don't care how ugly the prototype is. Give me something to look at." - Sean MatsonTune in to this episode for an engaging conversation that delves into the world of startups, innovation, and the military perspective on entrepreneurship.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Sean Matson - Co-founder MATBOCKhttps://www.matbock.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-matson/ 

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 WalkerCallye Keen introduces Zach Walker, Co-founder ATX Defense, an organization that helps national security organizations integrate revolutionary technology, scalable processes, and long-term viability into operations.[02:55] - Understanding CMMC and Its Evolution Zach Walker introduces the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and explains its significance in the defense industry. He highlights the evolution of CMMC and its role in strengthening security regulations.[06:45] - Challenges and Confusion Surrounding CMMC Callye and Zach discuss the challenges and confusion many companies face when dealing with CMMC requirements. Zach emphasizes the need for clarity and proper guidance in compliance.[12:18] - Empowering Startups in the Defense Space The conversation explores how startups can play a pivotal role in driving innovation within the defense industry. Zach and Callye discuss the importance of bringing new entrants into the ecosystem.[15:52] - CMMC's Impact on Business Operations Zach elaborates on how CMMC compliance can significantly affect a company's ability to secure defense contracts. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and preparing for CMMC's implications. [23:32] - Army Software Factory and Institutionalizing InnovationZach Walker shares insights into the Army Software Factory and its mission to empower service members to drive innovation in software development. The discussion highlights the culture shift required to embrace emerging technologies."To me, what's so special about the Army Software Factory, being in the reserves and, coming from the defense innovation unit, they have made good on that promise of empowering soldiers, service members to be part of the solution." - Zach WalkerCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Zach Walker - Co-founder ATX Defense atxdefense.com/cmmcZach led the Defense Innovation Unit’s Texas office from 2017-2020 and has over two decades of national security experience with service in the Army, Air Force, NSA, CIA, and at the Pentagon.  He co-founded ATX Defense to help national security organizations integrate revolutionary technology, scalable processes, and long-term viability into operations. Zach serves as the Chief Innovation Officer for the Texas Air National Guard and has worn the uniform since 2001.

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, understanding, and actionable solutions in this dynamic ecosystem.Topic Highlights:[00:00] - Introducing Art TrevethanCallye Keen introduces Art Trevethan, Partner at RIIS Technologies, an organization that offers performance ready data science and artificial intelligence.[05:25] - Navigating the Valley of Death Art illuminates the hurdles faced by innovations in transcending the infamous “valley of death.” He underscores the need for a plan and experienced individuals to expedite the journey of prototypes from obscurity to implementation.[07:08] - The Startups’ Stint with the Military Callye Keen highlights the recurring challenge of innovation implementation in the DOD. He pinpoints gaps between idea inception, sales, and establishing a viable business, stressing that achieving a program of record isn't the panacea many believe it to be.[10:02] - The Dual-Use Dilemma Trevethan advocates for a dual-use approach, warning against the government being the sole customer. He shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey and emphasizes the unpredictability and fickle nature of federal contracts. [14:02] - Barriers to Innovation in DODCallye points out the inherent challenge faced by radical innovations in finding their footing within the DOD, attributed to specific problems lacking analogous solutions in the commercial market. [19:08] - The Tribe Concept of CollaborationArt elaborates on the "tribe" concept, a converging point for various defense stakeholders. He envisions a nexus where startups, primes, warfighters, military leadership, and acquisition professionals collaboratively forge solutions.Parting Thought:"We are in a great power competition...and it's a fairly pacing competition that we need to get our innovations out and move them quickly." - Art Trevethan. This statement encapsulates the urgency and imperative nature of innovation in defense, illuminating the pressing need for speed and efficiency in this era of global competitiveness.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Art Trevethan - RIIS TechnologiesMedium -  https://medium.com/@ygthbLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arttrevethan/Email - art@RIIS.TECH or Art.Trevethan@gmail.comPhone - 614-579-7227About Art:As Partner at RIIS Technologies, Art leverages his technical proficiency and entrepreneurial insight to advance the culture of innovation. His team is consistently updated on market and technology trends, seeking opportunities to infuse these insights into the ecosystem of solution providers who may not have previously partnered with the military or federal government. Formerly serving the DOD Innovation community as Entrepreneur in Residence within the U.S. Army's modernization division - Army Futures Command > Army Applications Laboratory > Corporate Ventures - Art Trevethan is an entrepreneurial pioneer deeply involved in the startup and innovation landscape.

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 experience with actionable insights, shedding light on the intricate landscape of defense innovation.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Introduction to Defense StartupsCallye and Andrew set the stage by discussing the defense startup landscape. They underline its importance and the role it plays in contemporary geopolitics.08:12 - Defense's Unique HurdlesThe duo addresses the major obstacles that are unique to defense startups, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and strategic planning. 14:33 - The Dual-Use DilemmaAndrew Glenn elaborates on the "dual use" approach, explaining the intertwined sales cycle, dedicated marketing channels, and crucial compliance factors.18:05 - Crossing the Valley of DeathThe notorious 'valley of death' is dissected by Callye, who portrays the strategies defense startups can utilize to traverse this perilous phase.22:07 - The Illusion of Dual-Use PopularityThe appeal of dual use within the VC community is juxtaposed against the real-world complexities of its execution, underscoring the gap between perception and reality. 25:32 - Defense Department DynamicsCallye delves into the potential of the Department of Defense as an inaugural customer, highlighting the opportunities startups can exploit within this vast establishment.29:45 - The Aesop's Fable AnalogyAndrew's comparison to Aesop's Fable accentuates the risks of over-diversification. He suggests a deliberate approach when targeting multiple markets. 32:58 - Commercialization & ExpansionThe dialogue revolves around the importance of broadening horizons. Defense startups are encouraged to look beyond the D.O.D.'s budget and seek wider commercial opportunities. 34:50 - Partnering WiselyChoosing the right collaborators is pivotal. Callye emphasizes the benefits of allying with partners well-versed in emerging industries.36:04 - Parting Thought:"Don't take life too seriously, you'll never get out alive. Yes, we do a really, really important and serious business, but it's crucial that we remain human too." - Andrew GlennCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Andrew Glenn https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewglenn161 https://andrewglenn.substack.com Andrew Glenn is an operator, advisor, and consultant in the aerospace, defense, and venture capital industries, a retiring career military officer, and has previously served as the CEO of a privately-held company.  Andrew helps set strategic guidance, build executable plans, secure financing, generate strategic partnerships, and provides steady, integrity-focused leadership.  He has help a company go from $0 to $100M in revenue in a year and built defense-focused investment programs (thesis, playbook, et al) for two top-tier venture capital firms. 

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 barriers. The trio reflects on the present and future impacts of Beast Code's innovations.Topic Highlights:00:00 - The Unseen Challenges of Legacy SystemsJohn highlights the ongoing reliance on outdated software systems and the challenges they pose for modern operations.02:45 - Bridging the Gap between Industry and DefenseKeen pinpoints the challenges in defense with respect to data aggregation and how industries are often a step ahead in dealing with massive data influxes.09:40 - Clarifying 'Digital Twin'Callye underscores the need to define and explore use cases for the term 'Digital Twin'. Matt addresses the multifaceted nature of the term, discussing its range from a mere digital model to more complex manifestations.18:39 - Integrating Old with New TechKeen brings up the challenges and excitement of integrating old and new tech within the DoD. He also explores the difficulties of modern system interoperability, especially when it has to work with old equipment.24:12 - Emerging Mega Trends in DefenseMatt and John discuss the transformation in defense, emphasizing the integration of new tech like digital twin and sensor technology. They share the importance of adopting emerging trends to stay ahead.29:18 - Tech Evolution and Vendor Diversity They discuss avoiding vendor lock and embracing vendor diversity to combat complacency and stimulate continual innovation, ensuring that organizations remain on the cutting edge of technology development.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ Matt Zimmermann - CEO, Beast Codehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zimmermann-83196921/Matt Zimmermann is the CEO at Beast Code. As a cofounder, Matt has helped grow the company to over 200 employees focused on digital transformation in DoD and commercial markets. Matt has a background in software engineering and began his career as a C++ developer. He has helped build tech used across the DoD and continues to grow Beast Code’s world class workforce.John McCrea - Account Manager, Beast Codehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpatmccrea/ John McCrea is Account Manager, Air Force and Space Force, for Beast Code. John’s experience spans acquisitions and sustainment, but has a consistent theme of digital transformation. While active duty Air Force and Space Force, John supported numerous system program offices and also helped co-found SpaceWERX and the DAF Digital Transformation Office.

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 HalseyCallye Keen introduces Brad Halsey, CEO and co-founder of Building Momentum, an organization that offers world class corporate, educator, and military training that teaches problem solving, leadership, project management, team idea creation and development.[02:19] - Brad Halsey's Journey and Passion for Helping OthersBrad shares his journey from his time as a Navy officer to the creation of 'Building Momentum.' His experience led to a passion for assisting individuals during their toughest times, especially in war zones, disaster areas, and communities affected by systemic poverty. [07:09] - Four Pillars of Business at Building MomentumBrad Halsey delves into the four main business areas of Building Momentum: "innovation bootcamp" focusing on tech training for the DOD and industries, "innovation elevated" geared towards corporate training with a technological twist, "innovation academy" dedicated to teaching children problem-solving with technology, and "innovation design" for unique, innovative product creation. [11:17] - Revealing Team Dynamics Under PressureCallye Keen points out that project constraints can reveal hidden challenges or "rocks in the path" within a team. Brad Halsey agrees, noting that putting a team, regardless of their professional background, under a technological and time constraint reveals their true nature. [15:30] - Team Ownership and Problem-Solving in Dynamic EnvironmentsCallye and Brad discuss the pitfalls of waiting for hierarchical validation in a team setting, emphasizing the value of proactive problem-solving and iterating solutions quickly. [24:59] - Emphasizing Speed and Confidence in Technological AdaptationBrad Halsey underscores the importance of speed and adaptability in modern conflicts, emphasizing, "speed is going to be the greatest weapon." "It's not because I'm some genius. It's just because I have the confidence to know that I've been there and done that." - Brad HalseyCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Brad Halsey - CEO and Co-Founder, Building Momentumhttps://buildmo.comhttps://linktr.ee/BradHalseyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-halsey-74109933/ Brad Halsey CEO and Co-Founder, Building Momentum Founder and Chairman of the Board, Athena Rapid Response (501(c)3) Brad Halsey is a renowned world-class problem solver with decades of experience rapidly developing solutions on battlefields and disaster zones. As CEO and Co-Founder of Building Momentum, Brad leads a team of Ph.D.s, engineers, scientists, innovators, trainers, makers, educators, artists and thinkers to solve his clients’ hardest problems. Building Momentum also teaches people, from academics, engineers to corporate leaders and active-duty service members in the field, how to solve their own problems using new and emerging technologies.

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 TuttCallye Keen introduces Tim Tutt, CEO and Cofounder of Night Shift Development, helping organizations operate more efficiently by building them the tools they need to better exploit their data.[06:11] - The Data Deluge: Navigating the Surge of Modern Data AcquisitionCallye Keen highlights the evolution in data acquisition, emphasizing the ease with which modern sensor systems can capture data. He underscores the importance of refining the data storytelling process amidst this data influx, stressing the challenges of sifting through the vast amounts of collected data to extract meaningful and actionable insights.[10:47] - Edge Computing in Action: Chick-fil-A's Real-time Data MasteryTim highlights the growing significance of edge computing by giving a fascinating example of Chick-fil-A, which runs one of the world's largest Kubernetes clusters. Each of their locations independently analyzes data for optimal cook times, customer influx, and revenue predictions. This real-time, localized data processing exemplifies how businesses, and even the defense sector, can benefit from analyzing data right at its source rather than solely relying on central aggregation.[26:59] - Tailored Digital Experiences: Instagram's ModelA look at how platforms like Instagram are reshaping user experiences through personalized content, thanks to behavioral data analytics.[28:20] - Telemetry Sensors and Automotive AdvancementsTim emphasizes the role of data in automotive innovations, focusing on how Tesla's telemetry sensors are revolutionizing driving safety and car efficiency.[32:00] - The Government's Data-Driven Decision MakingThe conversation shifts back to government agencies, where data analytics is being used to refine contract language, assess proposal viability, and streamline operations, ensuring taxpayer value."Data is the new oil and a lot of people are collecting data that they just aren't doing anything with... if you got data, you want to be analyzing it because there's going to be some nugget in there that you can use." - Tim TuttCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Tim Tutt - Night Shift Development, IncLinkedIn - TimLinkedIn - Night Shift Development ClearQuery.ioNightshift Developmenthttps://twitter.com/nsdtechio About Tim TuttTim is currently the CEO and Cofounder of Night Shift Development, Inc., which focuses on helping organizations make sense of their data. Using his background in natural language processing, machine learning, and data analytics, he created and productized a solution aimed at allowing nontechnical users to have conversational experience with their data.

Callye Keen interviews Tony Williams from the Army Applications Lab (AAL) about the innovation and disruption happening within the defense industry. They discuss the necessity of the defense sector to move faster by collaborating with startups, the importance of funding and contracts for startups, the rising interest in defense innovation, and the challenges faced in measuring the impact of emerging technology startups. Topic Highlights:00:00 - Introducing Tony Williams Callye Keen introduces Tony Williams, representing the Army Applications Lab (AAL), a pivotal entity that plays a major role in defense innovation. 04:09 - Change in VC Interest Silicon Valley has a growing interest in the Defense Industry. Tony provides insights on how the VC community is looking into funding more defense startups.10:02 - Highlighting Start-ups and Solving Real ProblemsTony highlights start-ups he’s currently working with. Emphasizing the value of solving real world problems. He shares the story of equipping a private with VR goggles to make his job more efficient.15:24 - Startups Involved in Big ProblemsCallye shares how in the past, it was difficult for startups to get involved. Now, smaller firms can get their foot in the door and participate. 21:03 - Even Transformative Tech Start-ups Need a Business PlanTony shares his thoughts on why having a plan for funding is critical for start-ups. Knowing where investment capital is coming from will help you avoid the valley of death.30:58 - Changing Defense with Silicon Valley Approach Tony Williams shares insights from his past working with Ash Carter, former Secretary of Defense, on how the Silicon Valley startup model can revolutionize the defense sector by accelerating technology deployment.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Tony Williams - Army Applications Lab (AAL)Army Applications Laboratory https://aal.army/ LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/army-applications-laboratory/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonycarrollwilliams/ Twitter https://twitter.com/aal_innovation Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aal_innovation/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtVIvsxTjCk5n_VBbN89fXQ Mr. Williams is currently a Sr. Program Manager at Jacobs Engineering after formerly serving as a GS-15 federal program officer with the United States Postal Service as the Director of the Western US for Design and Construction managing a project portfolio of over $200M and staff of 100+ personnel. Learn more about Tony through his LinkedIn profile.

Step into the future of defense technology and venture capitalism as David Rothzeid, a seasoned Air Force veteran with 13 years of experience, guides us through an illuminating exploration. Delve into the realm of low Earth orbit satellites, cutting-edge venture funding, and remarkable advancements in defense technology. Gain insights into the dynamic intersection of defense tech and venture capital that is reshaping industries and discover how this episode serves as a catalyst for innovation and progress. David shares his passion for national security technology and the exciting traction companies are gaining in this space.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Venture Capital and Defense Tech David and Callye discuss the challenges and potential returns of investing in defense tech. David explains Shield Capital's approach to investing and the importance of commercial applications for the success of a company. They also discuss the challenges startups face in targeting both defense and non-defense markets simultaneously.05:48 - Investment StrategyDavid shares insights on how his background in the Air Force informs his investment decisions and how Shield Capital helps its portfolio companies navigate the complexities of the defense ecosystem. He also talks about the importance of understanding the acquisition process and the value of partnerships.12:01 - Making Strategic Decisions as a StartupRothzeid talks about the challenges startups face when approached by entities like the Air Force for demonstrations and how those exercises might not lead to the type of traction. He mentions the importance of understanding the decision-makers involved and whether it will lead to something worthwhile.00:15:04 - Highlighting Albedo: Game-Changing Satellite ImageryRothzeid highlights Albedo, a company that is putting up satellites in very low earth orbit with exquisite sensors that will be a game-changer for both the national security mission and commercial industries.23:48 - The Exciting Journey of a VCDavid shares his insights on the excitement and challenges faced by venture capitalists, emphasizing the need for strategic portfolio construction and the importance of having conviction in the founders they choose to invest in.25:24 - Criteria for an Investable StartupDavid discusses the key criteria that Shield Capital looks for in a startup, including the applicability of the technology to both commercial and national security, the stage of the business, and the market potential. He also highlights the importance of the founder's vision and the ability to build a billion-dollar business.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen David Rothzeid - Shield Capital https://shieldcap.com https://twitter.com/ShieldCapVC https://www.linkedin.com/company/shieldcap/ About David RothzeidDavid Rothzeid is a Vice President of Investments for Shield Capital, a venture capital firm with over $170 million in assets under management based out of San Francisco, CA. David is responsible for sourcing, diligencing, and supporting cutting edge start-ups across multiple technology verticals operating at the nexus of commercial innovation and national security. David separated as a Major from the United States Air Force after thirteen years on active duty. With assignments at the Pentagon, Defense Innovation Unit, Air Force Materiel Command, Special Operations Command, and Air Force Space Command, David earned distinction as an innovative acquisition officer pioneering the Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) and promoting other transaction (OT) authority among other

Callye Keen sits down with Heather Richman to discuss the transformation of defense programs into sustainable ventures, the significance of private capital, and the emergence of new players in the defense arena.They tackle how to create a thriving dual-use company and explore the potential value gap for innovators, where a commercial product can serve the DoD. Heather dives into the importance of embracing failure in the pursuit of national security and the necessity of clean capital in the startup arena. They delve into the possibilities of bridging the gap between the DOD and the private capital community, shedding light on the complexities of this process. They discuss the need for trusted relationships and the potential of innovation units. They cover insights learned from Heather's time in Washington. Topic Highlights:00:00 - IntroductionHeather shares her background and what she is passionate about right now.05:23 - Challenges and Opportunities in Bridging the DOD and StartupsCallye emphasizes the concept of "dual use," where innovations and products developed in the commercial sector can be repurposed for defense applications. This approach could save time and resources by not reinventing the wheel and leveraging already proven commercial technologies.14:15 - Commercial-Government Relations in DefenseHeather Richman identifies the inefficiencies in commercial-government relations due to frequent personnel changes in the defense department. In 2018, a surge of Chinese capital in Silicon Valley led to concerns about investment sources. This prompted the development of a "trusted capital marketplace" for clearer capital origin transparency.23:35 - Innovation & Government ChallengesKeen illustrates how the DoD and Intelligence Community face amplified versions of commercial market issues. While organizations like the US Cyber Command have specific areas of interest, these concerns are universally shared but bear greater consequences for the government.37:12 - Sustainable Defense Programs Heather Richman emphasizes the shift from repetitive appropriations to crafting self-sustaining defense programs, underscoring the role of private capital in this transformation.38:00 - The Reality of Technological Evolution Callye touches on the extensive infrastructure development, including software platforms and data centers, that companies like Nvidia invest in to make revolutionary tech applications feasible.40:04 - The New Face of Primes Heather Richman discusses the evolution and significance of prime companies in the defense sector. With evolving war scenarios, the role of primes becomes even more crucial.43:20 - Role of Venture CapitalHeather highlights the increasing interest of venture capitalists in the defense market, advocating for an incorporation of a national security perspective in investment choices.43:51 - Opportunities in Startup DefenseBoth Callye and Heather extend an invitation for deeper discussions and explorations into the defense startup ecosystem, highlighting its potential and Parting Thought"When you and I wake up every morning, I see the world through a national security lens. and I'd like for people to be thinking about national security as they're making choices." - Heather Jo RichmanCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ Heather Richman - Defense Investor Network https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherjrichman/