The Startup Defense

Episode Summary: Host Callye Keen welcomes Alex Gallo, Co-Founder of the Common Mission Project, in an insightful conversation that elucidates the connections between national security and societal progress. They discuss a novel, community-based approach to cybersecurity, and how this method can be leveraged to solve complex challenges faced by the Department of Defense.Topic Highlights:02:27 - Harnessing Community Power for National SecurityAlex Gallo and Callye Keen explore the 'Hacking for Defense' approach and its potential to pool diverse talents, perspectives, and resources for creative problem-solving, particularly concerning national security.18:15 - Redefining Risk in Defense Innovation'Hacking for Defense' reduces risk by providing evidence-based decision confidence for leaders, thereby enhancing strategic innovation capabilities.21:10 - The Red Queen Problem and the China ChallengeKeen and Gallo delve into the Red Queen problem, drawing parallels with the current US-China strategic competition. They underscore the necessity of rethinking traditional strategies to stay ahead of global rivals.21:36 - Building a Bridge between Society and National SecurityBridging the gap between society and national security is of vital importance. Such connections can foster a robust economy and a vibrant civil society, helping to protect the freedoms enjoyed by citizens.21:57 - Investment Disparity in InnovationThe vast difference between China's approach to funding innovation and that of the U.S. is of concern. China's strategic deployment of funds into innovation centers, exceeded the complete DoD budget and total U.S. venture capital investment. The urgency for the U.S. to rethink its investment strategies in order to keep pace with global adversaries in the realm of technology and innovation is highlighted. 23:27 - Local Empowerment through Constructive Problem-SolvingGallo advocates for the 'Hacking for Defense' approach, pointing out its potential to empower local communities and rejuvenate economies. This entrepreneurial spirit is crucial for rebuilding society at a hyper-local level.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitterAlex Gallo - Executive Director of the Common Mission Project (CMP)https://www.commonmission.ushttps://www.h4d.usLinkedIn

Episode Summary:Callye Keen hosts Kelli Kedis Ogborn, a space industry expert, to delve deep into the burgeoning opportunities in the space sector. The duo explores the evolving dynamics of the industry, the significance of government influence, and the role of innovation in shaping the future of space exploration.Topic Highlights:06:26 - Translating Tech to Operational RealityKeen underscores the importance of translating commercial technology into an operational set that suits the needs of different markets, particularly the federal space one. Ogborn adds on to Keen’s point, stating that space is extremely localized and that investment in space technologies deeply impacts people’s lives on a fundamental level every day. 20:56 - Public-Private Hybrid in SpaceKeen sees the space industry as a market that, by its nature, necessitates a public-private hybrid model. He suggests that technologists and innovators need to actively engage in industry dialogues to understand the operational landscape and avoid creating solutions without demand.22:30 - Government as a North StarOgborn emphasizes the crucial role of government in the space sector, not just as a regulator but also as a strategic direction setter. She notes that while private investment is currently greater, the government's strategic decisions hugely influence the commercial sector's trajectory.25:10 - Pushing the Boundaries of ImpossibleOgborn shares her enthusiasm for the space industry, praising its ability to inspire creative thought exercises and its capacity to push the boundaries of what's possible. This dynamism is what makes every day in the space industry exciting and inspiring.26:10 - The Future of Space is Collaborative and CompetitiveAs the space industry evolves, Ogborn sees a shift from a national, top-down approach to a more collaborative and competitive one. This new approach allows the industry to leverage the commercial sector's brain trust, opening opportunities for more entities to join the space ecosystem.Parting Thought:Callye Keen leaves us with a powerful reflection: "If you work on space, if you work on these new technologies, you'll be contributing to something that is pushing human civilization forward, and I think you'll be happy with it in 30 years when you retire."Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitterKelli Ogborn - Space Foundationhttps://www.spacefoundation.org/ LinkedIn

Host Callye Keen discusses funding through challenges and accelerator programs for startups with guest Jade Garrett. Together, Garrett and Keen are involved in Embryia, an accelerator program. Keen and Garrett go on to discuss the clean tech industry, how it relates to defense, and what advice Garrett has for people interested in getting involved in the industry. Episode Summary00:00 - Introduction Garrett gives insight into her experience applying for and winning a funding challenge to demonstrate the value behind connecting startups to these innovation challenges.01:05 - CleanTech Startup FundingKeen and Garrett discuss the work they’ve done in helping startups get non-dilutive funding through programs like the American Made Challenges, which issue awards rather than grants. Grants are sometimes characterized by difficult deliverables and questions and fund people to execute on a piece of research or business plan, versus an exploration endeavor. 04:31 - Embryia Mentors, Experts, and CommunityGarrett details an accelerator program she founded, called Embryia, which brings together a community of experts to provide assistance for startups. Embryia’s “Experts on Deck” model facilitates a community of niche experts who provide hands-on, one-on-one work with the startup in an effort to mentor startups at any level, from a solo founder to raising their Series A. 09:05 - Embryia’s Facilitation of Funding through ChallengesKeen and Garrett discuss what sets Embryia apart from other accelerator programs. Embryia encourages a finite goal for startups to work toward and stay motivated by connecting startups to various challenges to win funding at increasing levels. 11:12 - How Clean Tech Relates to Defense As energy innovations occur, the infrastructure must be built to be able to scale so that it meets defense needs. Startups in the clean tech space can work to innovate battery or solar technology, for example, to provide more resiliency through better operation and data. 15:25 - Advice for Innovation ChallengesGarrett’s experience applying for and winning a $250 thousand challenge highlights the importance of taking action on opportunities for startups. Jade Garrett - Owner and Founder of Positive Deviancy LinkedInTwitterCallye Keen - Kform  LinkedInYouTubeTwitter

Host Callye Keen discusses the Internet of Things (IOT), which has revolutionized the way we interact with our environment. Diving deeper, Callye hones in on a subset of IOT - the Internet of Military Things (IoMT), aka the Internet of the Battlefield. The parallels that exist between IoMT, Consumer IOT, and Industrial IOT are discussed as well as the critical requirements that exist for IoMT, such as robust cybersecurity, interoperability, cost, and perceived value. Episode Summary00:00 - The Startup Defense PodcastHost Callye Keen provides background and the need to execute on innovative ideas02:27 - Consumer IOT and Industrial IOT Parallels and How These Advance Military OperationsDevices and sensors are connected in order to monitor, analyze, and control various aspects of that environment. IOT devices in the home environment include things such as smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras, which can all be controlled remotely and programmed for optimal performance. Keen discusses how the IoMT extends this concept to military assets to allow for real time monitoring and management of equipment, logistics, communication systems, etc. 04:34 - Challenges to Adoption and Application of IoMTKeen discusses how the current invisible high-level of adoption in the commercial market for IOT can be used to assist IoMT. If we can understand the challenges that commercial IOT has overcome, we can provide valuable insight into how these obstacles could be overcome for IoMT. One major challenge is the lack of interoperability. 12:15 - The Cybersecurity Challenge to Adopting IoMTWhile the military faces the same challenges as commercial IOT, there is a significantly higher resistance and there is significantly more risk. One of the largest challenges that arise from this risk is in regards to cybersecurity, which directly impacts national security and the safety of military personnel. “Ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive military data is paramount.” Keen discusses the necessity for cybersecurity and some of the DOD’s various standards for cybersecurity, such as CMMC. 15:22 - Supply Chain Concerns for IoMTSupply chain security is a significant concern for IoMT, as an increase in sourced components and software leads to an increased risk of vulnerabilities in the chain. Keen highlights the effectiveness that domestic production can have to mitigate these risks and encourages public-private partnerships and collaboration between defense contractors, technology startups, and government agencies. Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitter

Host Callye Keen speaks with Pete Newell, CEO of BMNT, a venture firm that focuses on solving complex national security problems through innovation. Newell discusses the importance of dual-use technology and the role of entrepreneurs in solving big global issues. He also talks about the benefits of government service, including opportunities for funding and collaboration, as well as the challenges of navigating government contracts and policies. The conversation ends with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and resources for staying involved in the defense innovation community.Episode Highlights:[00:01:20] The importance of dual-use technology and its impact on national security[00:07:12] The role of entrepreneurs in solving big global issues[00:17:33] Benefits of government service, including opportunities for funding and collaboration[00:23:37] Challenges of navigating government contracts and policies[00:28:58] Staying involved in the defense innovation communityEpisode Summary:00:00 - The Startup Defense Podcast, Episode 3 IntroductionGuest Pete Newell gives a glimpse into the work he’s done in Silicon Valley. 20:09 - Opportunities for Funding and CollaborationNewell highlights the benefits of government service, including opportunities for funding and collaboration. He discusses the various contract vehicles available for startups and the importance of working with government organizations like AffWorks or DIU to get innovation in. He also encourages entrepreneurs to become involved in Hacking4Defense, climate, homeland security, or other advisory roles.20:17 - Entrepreneurs and Global IssuesNewell believes that entrepreneurs can have a significant impact on global issues, particularly those related to national security. He describes how startups can create meaningful solutions to large-scale problems and discusses the role of incubators and accelerators in supporting innovation.22:58 - Dual-Use Technology: Solving National Security ChallengesPete Newell emphasizes the importance of dual-use technology in solving complex national security challenges. He describes how innovations created for commercial use can also have military applications, and how entrepreneurs can create products that have dual-use potential. This approach allows the military to benefit from cutting-edge technology while also supporting economic growth and innovation.24:52 - Navigating Government Contracts and PoliciesNewell acknowledges the challenges of navigating government contracts and policies. He describes the importance of understanding the investment thesis and the need to account for three networks: technology readiness, adoption readiness, and investment readiness. He also encourages entrepreneurs to leave comments and ask questions to get involved in the conversation and gain a better understanding of the process.28:58 - Staying Involved in the Defense Innovation CommunityNewell provides resources for staying involved in the defense innovation community. He suggests following him and his organization BMNT on LinkedIn, as well as the Common Mission project, which runs Hacking4Defense. He also recommends reading Steve Blank's blog and visiting BMNT's website, which has a wealth of resources and analysis. Newell emphasizes the importance of getting involved in the conversation and working with real people to create real solutions.Peter Newell - CEO of BMNT https://bmnt.com/LinkedInTwitterCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedIn

In this second episode of The Startup Defense, host Callye Keen and guest Tim Shinbara, Chief Technology Officer of AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, discuss the intersection of technology and manufacturing. They cover the impact of additive manufacturing, the importance of cybersecurity in the industry, and the benefits of partnerships for startups in the manufacturing space.Episode Highlights:(00:01:11) The role of AMT in the manufacturing industry(00:05:43) The impact of additive manufacturing on the industry(00:09:50) The importance of cybersecurity in manufacturing(00:23:06) How digitization is changing manufacturing processes(00:28:08) The potential for partnerships in the manufacturing industryEpisode Summary0:00 - The Startup Defense Podcast, Episode 2 IntroductionGuest, Tim Shinbara, touches on a few knowledge deficiencies that currently exist in the manufacturing industry. 01:37-02:37 - AMT's role in the manufacturing industryAMT is a trade association for companies in the manufacturing technology industry. Their goal is to help businesses of all sizes to be more efficient and productive through the use of technology. They offer training, support, and advocacy for manufacturers and work to promote the industry as a whole.25:39-26:38 - The impact of additive manufacturing on the industryAdditive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is changing the manufacturing industry in a big way. It allows for faster and more efficient production, as well as the creation of more complex shapes and designs. However, there are still challenges to overcome, such as the need for more standardization and better quality control measures.17:50-19:47 - The importance of cybersecurity in manufacturingAs manufacturing becomes more digitized, the need for cybersecurity measures becomes more important. Hackers could potentially cause physical damage to machines or steal valuable data. It's important for companies to be proactive in their cybersecurity efforts, including implementing strong passwords and regularly updating their software.09:04-10:29 - How digitization is changing manufacturing processesDigitization is changing the way that manufacturing processes work, including the ability to gather and analyze data in real-time. This can lead to more efficient and cost-effective production, as well as the ability to catch errors or issues before they become bigger problems. However, there are still challenges to overcome, such as the need for more standardization and interoperability between different systems.31:09-31:56 - The potential for partnerships in the manufacturing industryPartnerships can be a valuable way for startups and entrepreneurs to break into the manufacturing industry. By partnering with established companies, they can access resources and expertise that they may not have on their own. It's important to look for partners who complement your own strengths and can help you reach new markets.Tim Shinbara - CTO, The Association for Manufacturing Technologyhttps://www.amtonline.org/home LinkedInTwitterCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitter

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Startup Defense podcast with host Callye Keen and guest Chad Green, an engineer working to make our roads, hospitals, and schools safer through innovation.Chad GreenAs President and Founder of Lantern, LLC, Chad Green has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to life-saving technology.Chad founded Lantern in December of 2017. Lantern is dedicated to developing life-saving and life-supporting technologies spanning medical devices, industrial safety, and advanced AI analytics. As president, Chad has grown Lantern from a basement startup to a successful R&D firm with several new patents and products being developed each year.Episode Highlights0:00 - The Startup Defense Podcast, Episode 1 Introduction Chad gives a glimpse into the topic of this episode and his innovative creation that is changing operating rooms to support safer, more efficient surgeries. 05:51-06:23 - Protecting Our Children Through the Use of a Neural NetworkChad discusses creating a neural network that he’s trained to detect handguns by being curious about how he could use that same technology that detects grenades to prevent school shootings and protect our children. 5:51 - “Back in 2014, my cousin's daughter was killed in the Newtown, Connecticut shooting. At the time, I was working for the Department of Defense, and we were detecting rocket propel grenades and trying to blow those out of the air before they hit the armored vehicle.”11:10-12:06 - Using Innovation to Keep Soldiers Safe While Chad’s small startup was working in the defense world, they explored an idea of what they thought could work to keep our soldiers safe using existing technology. 11:43 - “I spent 12 years innovating and reiterating on that original design. Making a package that could be taken to the field to protect soldiers from rockets that were coming straight at their cars.”28:10-29:38 - Leveraging Insurance Companies as Partners in InnovationChad discusses his theory in which insurance companies are utilized as partners in innovation. Insurance companies have a strong incentive to de-risk situations, making them natural partners for innovation, as by identifying and mitigating risks, they can help to de-risk new products, services, and technologies. 28:10 - “They're strongly incentivized to de-risk situations, and by and large, they're left out of the innovation. Bringing insurance into the fold would really benefit innovation because insurance companies are the biggest funders of innovation when it happens.”Chad Green - Lantern, LLCwww.lanternlabs.comLinkedInTwitterCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitter

Welcome to the introductory episode of The Startup Defense podcast with host Callye Keen. In this episode, Callye explains the motivation behind starting this show. Throughout the podcast, Callye and his guests will explore the intersection of the entrepreneurial spirit and the market. Innovation is the best course for a better life, a better community, and to stick around as a civilization. In this podcast, Callye will mash these two things together and discuss how incubators and accelerators could massively benefit the defense innovation space. Callye gives a brief introduction of his background and experience, including how he got into product development and his company's focus on the C5ISR market.Episode Highlights:00:00 - The Startup Defense Podcast: IntroductionCallye Keen introduces The Startup Defense podcast, which aims to explore the intersection of commercial technology and defense innovation. He invites listeners to join the conversation and promises to provide a broad and open discussion.00:56-02:38 - The Vision for The Startup DefenseKeen shares his vision for the podcast, which is to “look at the intersection of two things that he really loves - entrepreneurial spirit… and defense innovation.” He highlights the importance of diverse opinions and encourages listeners to share their ideas, while stating that he wants to bring new perspectives and learn from the guests on the show.03:24-05:22 - Callye’s Background Callye provides insight into how he got to this point in life. Growing up in the manufacturing industry through his family’s business, Keen has worked in software development, web development, and web design. Keen has also worked at several startup companies and has experience in product development and reverse engineering parts. 06:57-08:32 - Existential Crises Between Science and EntrepreneurshipCallye’s work as a mentor in incubators and accelerators opened his eyes to how things were done - a lot of the ways startups are being taught isn’t how the real world works, especially in defense. Callye started working more deeply with incubators and started his own accelerators as a result of identifying the chasm that existed between science and entrepreneurship.08:37-10:11 - Future Guests of the ShowFuture guests of the Startup Defense podcast will bring an array of expertise, from program leaders and grant organizers to national labs, in spaces where innovation is bubbling up. These discussions with guests will introduce endless opportunities to the startup world. In conclusion, The Startup Defense podcast is introduced as a platform for founders to share their ideas and businesses in a broad and open conversation. Keen invites listeners to join the conversation and promises to provide a space for diverse opinions.Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitter