The Startup Defense

Episode Summary:Callye Keen discusses the complexities and challenges facing defense technology innovation with guest Rob Slaughter. They explore the landscape of government defense contracts, the role of open-source software in innovation, and the potential of leveraging AI in the defense sector.Topic Highlights:00:00 - The Government and Open SourceRob Slaughter discusses the pros and cons of using open-source software in the defense sector. He highlights the barriers to adoption, including policy restrictions and security concerns. This conversation provides an in-depth look at the potential for change in governmental processes. 15:47 - The Security of Open-SourceSlaughter delves into the security implications of using open-source software. He expresses a nuanced understanding of the benefits and drawbacks, such as the potential for a broader community to identify vulnerabilities versus the risks of exposure.30:02 - Balancing Innovation and PracticalityThere is a struggle between pushing for innovation and adhering to practical limitations. Rob and Callye explore this balance, discussing the importance of clear communication, understanding end-user needs, and the careful management of resources.38:49 - AI's Role in DefenseDelving into the opportunities AI presents, Rob paints a vivid picture of how machine learning models could process and extract information from government documents. However, he acknowledges the complexity of marrying classified information with AI, emphasizing the need for continued research and development.40:39 - Auditing vs ImplementationCallye Keen introduces a significant problem in the defense industry - the focus on audit standards over implementation standards. This shift in approach could significantly alter the way businesses interact with government defense contracts and improve operational efficiency. 42:40 - The Incentive DilemmaBoth Callye and Rob underline the tension that exists between innovation and profitability in the defense sector. This part of their discussion explores the reasons behind the defense sector's reluctance to embrace open source and the potential loss of expertise that could ensue. 44:12 - Shaping Defense InnovationRob draws attention to the innovation ecosystem within the defense industry, the budget allocations, and the impact of leadership changes. He also expresses his concern about the rapid turnover of personnel in government innovation programs, likening it to the challenges startups face. Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Robert Slaughter - https://www.defenseunicorns.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertcslaughter/ https://www.youtube.com/@defense-unicornshttps://twitter.com/DefenseUnicorns

Episode Summary:In an enlightening conversation with Trish Martinelli, Callye Keen delves into the heart of problem-solving within the realm of defense innovation. They explore the intersection of bureaucracy and technological advancements, focusing on the role of an innovation mindset in revolutionizing the defense industry.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Embracing an Innovation MindsetAdopting an innovative mindset is vitally important, even within bureaucratic settings. Encouraging risk-taking and creativity, Martinelli highlights the need to foster an environment that facilitates progress and experimentation.16:01 - The Value of Innovation in Defense IndustryIn an engaging discussion with Callye Keen, Trish talks about the crucial role of innovation in the defense industry, emphasizing the need for industry-wide adoption of an innovation mindset to ensure national security and development.28:33 - Collaborative Approach to Innovation Discussing the evolution of the defense industry, Callye Keen shares his perspective on the increasing role of collaboration. The blending of commercial innovation and defense industry requirements is helping to expedite problem-solving and development.31:01 - Putting Users at the Center of SolutionsTrish elucidates the need for user-centric solutions within the defense department. She shares insights from Marina's book, "Hack your Bureaucracy", illustrating the need to improve user experience in the defense sector.29:00 - Learning from Commercial GiantsDrawing comparisons with UPS, Google, and Amazon, Callye encourages the defense sector to learn from the logistics and tracking systems of these industry leaders. This cross-industry learning is crucial to foster rapid innovation.33:42 - Engaging with Defense Entrepreneur ForumAs the Executive Director Emerita of the Defense Entrepreneur Forum, Trish advocates for joining passionate communities that are committed to problem-solving and innovation within the defense realm.34:00 - Understanding Ingredients and Knowing People for SuccessMartinelli lists two essential components for success in the defense department: understanding the systems and data, and knowing the right people. Building networks and asking good questions can significantly impact progress.Parting Thought:"Ask good questions, offer good solutions, and follow up. If you don't have a personal CRM or a way to process through LinkedIn connections and business cards, find your system that works or find a person that will do it for you." - Trish MartinelliCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Trish Martinelli - Defense Entrepreneur Forumhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/trishmartinelli-differencemaker/ 

Episode Summary:In a thought-provoking dialogue, host Callye Keen engages with Michael Meyer, an intrapreneur innovator, in discussing the complex intersection of software and hardware. They delve into the transformation of the design process, the challenges of reaching end users, the impact of bureaucratic barriers, and the power of innovation to overcome these hurdles.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Innovation CultureMeyer attributes this shift from a checklist-based approach to a more iterative, experimental innovation culture largely to a new generation of leaders within the military who view the world differently. As the mentality towards innovation shifted, it sparked the rise of new initiatives and gave birth to a culture that encourages open opinions and problem-solving.11:30 - “Default Laziness”Callye and Meyer discuss the current business culture of "default laziness", where organizations tend to outsource any complex problem that arises rather than dealing with it internally. 18:44 - Rethinking the Engineering ProcessMeyer underscores the shift in engineering, particularly as hardware's rapid evolution slows, and attention focuses on maximizing data utility and developing efficient software that fits within existing hardware constraints.19:54 - The Software Age and Hardware ConstraintsMichael suggests we're in the 'software age,' where due to the increasing cost and complexity of advancing physical technologies, focus has shifted to software design, data compression, and usefulness of data.22:06 - Innovation as Communication SolutionDiscussing the rise of AI, Meyer notes that much innovation is driven by the challenge of bypassing bureaucratic barriers to effective communication, creating systems that infer and predict needs, reducing the need for explicit instruction.23:36 - Hardware as Software's ResidenceKeen describes his role in creating adaptable and modular hardware systems to accommodate varying data and software needs. He emphasizes that modern hardware's primary function is to enable data collection and transformation.25:28 - The Misunderstood Relationship of Hardware and SoftwareMeyer challenges the notion that "software is eating hardware," suggesting instead that software development is now being forced to adapt to hardware constraints, leading to more efficient and thoughtful software design.26:27 - Software Design Influencing HardwareMeyer presents Tesla as an example of a company that's mastered the art of developing software and then building hardware to support it. This reverse approach could potentially simplify physical building.Parting Thought:"At the end of the day, what makes you an innovator, especially in today's world, is aligning passion. Find what matters the most to you in your life, and then just use that as your inspiration for all your solutions." - Michael Meyer Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://youtube.com/@kforminc  https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Michael Meyerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-meyer-3a4442156 

Episode Summary:In this captivating conversation, host Callye Keen engages with his guest, Russell Waddell, in a deep dive into the world of manufacturing. Their discussion explores the evolution of manufacturing and the inherent need for collaborative work environments. The duo also underscores the significance of fostering talent and staying adaptable in a rapidly changing industrial landscape.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Rejuvenating the Manufacturing SceneThe duo delve into the resurgence of manufacturing, with Waddell noting that the focus should not be on competition, but on creating quality products and cultivating a talented workforce.11:07 - The Power of Passion and ExperienceKeen highlights the importance of hands-on experience and passion in shaping the best engineers, emphasizing how a non-monetary drive can lead to impressive results and innovative solutions in the manufacturing field.14:29 - The Shift Toward FlexibilityThe conversation underscores the shift in the defense industry from large, long-term platforms to smaller, more flexible ones. This move fosters efficiency and expedites the production cycle.21:06 - The Future of ManufacturingCallye predicts a brighter future for manufacturing, particularly in the reshoring initiatives downstream of the CHIPS Act. Russ shares his aspirations of contributing to this promising future by aiding the creation of unique, useful products.24:27 - The Role of Collaboration in ManufacturingRuss elucidates how modern manufacturing is a team sport, highlighting the necessity for a range of skill sets and cross-team collaboration for efficiency and effectiveness in the manufacturing process.Parting Thought"We're in a world that doesn't allow us to grow fast enough or have the right resources. The only way forward is through collaboration and connectivity. In the end, our goal is to make cool stuff, and if I can work with 10 people who are making cool stuff, I can make 10 times as much stuff." - Callye KeenCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxJE64JgFTUAzDS3m-56FtA https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Russell Waddellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-waddell/ https://www.russwaddell.com 

Episode Summary:Host Callye Keen converses with Andy Yakulis, expert in defense innovation, discussing how startups can navigate and leverage the defense industry's complex contracting vehicles. They delve into the concept of Other Transaction Authority (OTA), its potential for startups, and how the defense industry is encouraging and fostering innovation.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Understanding the Defense EcosystemThe defense industry is emphasized as a relationship business. Understanding various contracting vehicles, problem domains, and the industry's landscape can significantly benefit startups aiming for growth.07:21 - Unlocking Defense FundingKeen and Yakulis discuss the potential of various funding methods, including SBIR programs, OTAs, and other alternative contracting vehicles, to give startups the financial boost they need to thrive.15:31 - The Innovation in Defense IndustryYakulis details the unique role of startups in bringing innovation to the defense sector, how they fill a gap that traditional defense primes may not focus on due to their focus on large system developments.21:46 - The Power of OTAYakulis explains the advantage of Other Transaction Authority (OTA), a contract method that may be friendlier to startups. While every contracting officer has the ability to use OTA, certain defense innovation organizations specialize in this method, offering startups a potential pathway into the defense industry.22:25 - Strategy of OTAStartups should understand the distinction between prototype OTAs, production OTAs, and FAR-based contracts. A well-planned approach can prove beneficial in winning defense contracts.26:02 - Importance of Defense ExposKeen and Yakulis highlight the value of attending defense shows, where startups can connect with industry veterans, learn about the latest tech, and gain insights into community and innovation programs within defense.29:43 - Facilitating StartupsYakulis expresses that the DOD understands that startups are key to innovation. Hence, the department is working on breaking barriers and simplifying processes to make it easier for startups to demonstrate their technology.Parting Thought"We understand that startups are where innovation happens... We want new innovative technology. We want new businesses to apply and get involved." - Andy YakulisCallye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyekeen/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxJE64JgFTUAzDS3m-56FtA https://twitter.com/CallyeKeen Andy Yakulis https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyyakulis/ https://twitter.com/AndrewYakulis 

Episode Summary: Callye Keen sits down with Pramod Raheja, the co-founder and CEO of Airgility, a company pioneering drone and aerial robotics technology. They delve into the world of emerging tech startups, discussing the unique challenges, potential pitfalls, and the excitement of taking a new idea to market, with a particular focus on Department of Defense (DoD) solutions.Topic Highlights:00:00 - Societal Impact Fuels InnovationRaheja talks about the larger societal mission that drives Airgility, sharing the company’s aspiration to use drone technology to make a significant impact, be it in defending the country, sustainability, climate change, or search and rescue operations.21:54 - The Concept of Anti-Fragility in StartupsPramod Raheja explains the necessity of resilience and adaptability in startup environments, emphasizing the importance of team members who can roll with the punches. He underscores that this resilience will serve individuals well in their future careers.25:16 - Selling the Vision, Not the PaycheckCallye Keen points out the significance of selling the mission and vision of the startup rather than a lucrative paycheck. They explore the crucial role of authenticity in attracting top-tier talent who resonate with the company’s values.27:18 - Emerging Tech Market PotentialThe conversation touches on the misconception that drone technology is a saturated market. Raheja highlights the vast, unexplored potential in the UAS (uncrewed systems) sector, proving that it's nowhere near being "played out."29:08 - Persistence: The Key to SuccessIn concluding thoughts, Raheja shares the quintessential entrepreneurial wisdom of persistence. He encourages startups to stick with their vision, strive for the holy grail of product-market fit, and keep engaging with potential clients and the wider industry community.Parting Thought:Pramod Raheja leaves us with this parting thought about persistence, "You might think you're done, but something's right around the corner... So I would say that, and, and you know, and if you read, like I do a lot of reading of entrepreneurs, many thought about quitting... But you did because you're human. So I'd say persistence, just sticking with it."Callye Keen - Kformhttps://kform.com/ LinkedInYouTubeTwitterPramod Raheja - Airgility, IncLinkedInTwitter

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