TheMilVet Podcast

In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins is joined by Kevin Cornish, the founder and CEO of Moth + Flame, a groundbreaking company revolutionizing training through virtual reality. Kevin shares his journey from Hollywood to tech, detailing how he transitioned from aspiring filmmaker to leading a company at the forefront of AI and VR. He explains the power of immersive training experiences, particularly for the military and workforce development, and the benefits of using virtual reality for scenarios like suicide prevention, cultural training, and even aircraft maintenance.As a self-proclaimed "Luddite" when it comes to technology, Beau learns from Kevin how VR is not just a futuristic concept but a practical, scalable tool already making a real impact. The conversation also explores the challenges and opportunities of bringing immersive tech into mainstream use, while debunking some of the myths and fears surrounding AI and VR. Whether you’re familiar with these technologies or just getting started, this episode offers an insightful look into the future of training and decision-making in high-pressure environments.Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how VR is not just a tool, but a bridge to transforming how we learn, react, and make decisions. 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 Military Veteran Podcast, Tim Hsia sits down with Emery Wager, a Marine veteran, Stanford graduate, and the co-founder of Confido Legal. Emery takes us on a journey from his childhood in the Pacific Northwest to the competitive sailing world and his transition into the Marines. He reflects on his time at Stanford, where he balanced academics with sailing, and the decision that led him to join the Marine Corps despite not coming from a military background.Emery shares his experience from officer candidate school at Quantico to his deployments in Afghanistan, offering valuable insights into leadership and the realities of military life. After his military service, Emery made a seamless transition into the world of legal tech, co-founding Confido Legal, a company dedicated to modernizing the legal industry. He discusses how his background in engineering and leadership informed his entrepreneurial journey.Listen in as Emery talks about navigating different worlds—from the academic halls of Stanford to the intense training of the Marine Corps, and how these experiences shaped his approach to business and life today. 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 Coyne, a former Marine and current CEO in the private equity world. Brian shares his unique journey from serving 26 years in the U.S. Marine Corps to successfully transitioning into the private equity sector—a path less traveled by many veterans.Brian discusses how his military background in leadership, discipline, and results-driven environments translated into the corporate world, despite the challenges of lacking a traditional finance background. From exploring opportunities in defense and sports to ultimately finding a home in private equity, Brian provides valuable insights into the power of networking, mentorship, and leveraging one's strengths during a transition.Tune in to hear how Brian navigated this unfamiliar terrain, built meaningful connections, and earned the chance to lead within a private equity firm, ultimately becoming a CEO in a turnaround company. Whether you're transitioning out of the military or looking to make a career change, Brian’s story offers practical advice on tackling new challenges and making bold career moves.Don't miss this inspiring conversation on leadership, resilience, and the power of learning as you go. 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

Welcome back to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Rich Comitz, a dedicated veteran and Chief Operating Officer at American Corporate Partners (ACP), to discuss his remarkable journey from military service to academia and finally to his current role helping veterans transition into civilian careers.Rich takes us through his time at West Point, his 23 years of service in the U.S. Army, and his unexpected path into higher education. We explore the challenges veterans face when transitioning out of the military, including the frustrations of applying to countless jobs with little response. Rich shares how networking, mentorship, and a bit of serendipity helped him land his position at Long Island University, and how this eventually led him to ACP.He also gives us a deep dive into the work ACP is doing to help veterans and military spouses find their next career, build meaningful mentorship relationships, and thrive in the civilian workforce. Whether you're a transitioning veteran or someone who supports them, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating career pivots, embracing new opportunities, and finding success after service.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about perseverance, mentorship, and the power of service. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share the podcast with a friend! 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, Joseph Cabrera from Mainshares joins hosts Brendan Aaronson and Beau Higgins to discuss search funds and small business acquisitions. Cabrera, a former Army officer and special ops veteran, shares his transition from military service to entrepreneurship, including a near-miss with Goldman Sachs. He discusses the importance of leadership, team building, and creating a strong "tribal" dynamic in business, drawing parallels to his military experiences. Cabrera recounts his journey to becoming Chief of Staff at a finance and tech firm, where he discovered his passion for building new businesses and fostering strong teams. He then founded Wyld Whisper, a leadership development company that utilizes extreme experiences, before ultimately joining Mainshares to empower the next generation of business operators through acquisition. Listeners will gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship through acquisition and how veterans can leverage their unique skills in the business world. Cabrera's story is an inspiration for vets seeking new avenues for service and success. Learn more about Mainshares at mainshares.com and connect with Joseph on LinkedIn! 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

Welcome back to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Halterman previously of The Honor Foundation to discuss the incredible work they’re doing to support veterans, particularly those in the special operations community, as they transition to civilian life.Michael takes us through his own journey, from being one of the first members of MARSOC to navigating the challenges of reintegrating into civilian society. We dive deep into the importance of finding your true identity outside the uniform, and how the Honor Foundation’s unique approach helps veterans discover their purpose and strengths—beyond just securing a paycheck.With valuable insights on leadership, transition, and the power of self-discovery, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone going through transition or supporting a veteran in their journey. Don’t miss Michael’s powerful message on how to approach life after service with clarity, purpose, and confidence.Be sure to like, subscribe, and share the podcast with a friend! 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 Military Veteran Podcast, we chat with Julie Cane, a former Navy pilot who made a successful transition from the military to the civilian workforce. From flying helicopters for Navy SEALs to leading a company focused on investing in democracy, Julie shares her fascinating journey and the lessons learned along the way.In this conversation, Julie opens up about her military background, including her time at the U.S. Naval Academy, flight school in Pensacola, and her role in various high-adrenaline missions. She also discusses her smooth (but challenging) transition to civilian life, touching on her work at SEI Investments, her time at UCLA for an MBA, and the shift to consulting and corporate venture capital at companies like Autodesk.We also dive into the transferable skills veterans bring to the civilian world: leadership, strategy, adaptability, and resilience. Whether you're a veteran making the transition, someone curious about military career paths, or just interested in inspiring career stories, this episode is for you! 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 Brendan Aaronson and co-host Beau Higgins sit down with retired three-star General Robert Ruark, a Marine Corps legend whose 36 years of service have left an indelible mark on both the military and nonprofit sectors. General Ruark, now the president and CEO of the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, shares his extraordinary journey—from leading troops in combat to advocating for financial relief and support for our nation's sailors and Marines.In addition to diving into the crucial work of the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, General Ruark discusses the challenges faced by enlisted Marines, particularly financial struggles, and what changes are needed to better support them. He also opens up about the invaluable lessons he's learned from Marines over the years—lessons of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment—that continue to shape his work today.If you’d like to learn more about the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, you can go to any of their 52 offices or click through to their website: https://www.nmcrs.org/  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

Today we’re joined by Roxanne Bras Petraeus, co-founder and CEO of Ethena, an innovative compliance training platform redefining how businesses approach ethics and culture. Roxanne shares her journey from serving as an Army Engineer and Rhodes Scholar to launching Ethena, a Series B company that's raised $50 million in venture capital.We dive into the inspiration behind Ethena and how it transforms compliance training into a tool for building company culture. Roxanne reflects on the leadership lessons she carried from the military into the tech world, her experiences as a female founder, and her advice for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. She also discusses navigating challenges in fundraising, hiring, and building a mission-driven business.This conversation is packed with insights for veterans, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to create impactful solutions. Learn more about Ethena at goethena.com and follow Roxanne on LinkedIn for more inspiring content! 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

For our 100th episode, we’re honored to host Chris Cassidy, former Navy SEAL, NASA astronaut, and current President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum. Chris shares his incredible journey from a small town in Maine to becoming one of only 500 humans to have traveled to space.In this episode, Chris reflects on his time as a SEAL during pivotal moments in U.S. history, including deployments shortly after 9/11, and shares what it felt like to view Earth from space for the first time. He dives into the leadership lessons learned during his military and NASA careers, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, teamwork, and preparation under pressure. Chris also discusses his transition to leading the Medal of Honor Museum, where he continues to inspire by preserving the stories of our nation’s heroes.Don’t miss this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation. Learn more about Chris’s work at mohmuseum.org, and join us as we celebrate 100 episodes of incredible stories and insights! 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