TheMilVet Podcast

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 pathThe importance of embracing failure, learning fast, and using setbacks to innovateHow to identify gaps in a market and create a differentiated product that is difficult to replicatePractical strategies for entrepreneurship, including planning, building the right team, and understanding your ecosystemThe value of humility, curiosity, and listening to your customers in driving successLessons on transitioning from the military to a tech-focused business environmentTyler 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.orgFollow us on LinkedIn → @TheMilVetSubscribe 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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 impactThe process of recognizing and cultivating talent, even in high-performing teamsLessons from graduate school, West Point, and special operations that shaped his coaching philosophyThe challenges and mindset shifts involved in transitioning from military to civilian lifeHow to harness untapped potential in individuals and organizations through his “Dormant 40” frameworkThe story behind Eternal Lessons and its mission to turn experience into actionable, lifelong lessonsInsights 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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 AcademyWhy exposure to diverse people and backgrounds in the military becomes an unmatched foundation for leadershipHow setbacks—like injuries and unexpected career pivots—can create new opportunitiesThe origins of Steve’s interest in financial markets and how handwritten letters, persistence, and “just showing up” opened doors in the pre-digital networking worldWhat it’s like entering the private equity ecosystem later in a career and leading through a full PE transaction as COOWhy veterans should understand vocabulary, context, and industry language when breaking into finance or private marketsTimeless transition advice: grit, adaptability, learning from good and bad leaders, and maximizing the power of mentorshipSteve 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 VeteranSubscribe 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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 journeyThe evolution of SIGINT and electronic warfare and why “AI at the edge” is critical for the future fightLessons learned from deployments to Iraq and Yemen supporting SEAL teams and coalition partnersHis decision to transition from military service to building Darksaber LabsReal-world advice for veterans breaking into the defense tech and startup ecosystemThe power of networking, persistence, and understanding your value as a veteran in the private sectorBrian 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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 VeteranBryan 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.orgFollow us on LinkedIn → @MilVetSubscribe on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #MarineCorps #Transition #Entrepreneurship #ProfessionalGrowth #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #VeteranAdvocacy Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

🎙️ 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 serviceThe unfiltered truth about starting at the bottom and playing catch-upWhy mentors and military networks can change the gameWhat private equity really looks like behind the scenesHow GenAI is reshaping the future of software—and Ryan’s role in itWhy Vista Equity Partners is investing heavily in veteran talentWhether 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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

🎙️ 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 mindsetWhy Vetavize is more than an app—it’s a lifeline for veteransThe truth about failing forward in business and lifeHow employers can support veterans and unlock tax benefitsWhat psychedelic therapy really looks like—and how it’s saving livesVeterans 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 Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

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 ChangeHow 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 ConnectionA 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 MattisFirsthand 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 EnterpriseLeading efforts to integrate SIGINT, HUMINT, GEOINT, and technical capabilities into a cohesive Marine Corps intelligence community.Driving Innovation in AI and Decision-MakingHow 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 DecisionsA 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 AIMike 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 chiefThe human side of military intelligence and collaborationKey milestones—battle-tested, bureaucratic, and technology-driven—that defined Mike’s careerActionable lessons for veterans entering AI, cybersecurity, and defense techDiscover more stories of transition, leadership, and innovation with TheMilVet Podcast at themilvet.org.#TheMilVetPodcast #USMCVeteran #AI #MarineCorpsIntel #MilitaryTransition #VeteranInTech #DefenseInnovation #AILeadership #VeteranFounders #Cybersecurity #L Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet