TheMilVet Podcast

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

Grant Demaree, Co-founder and CEO of OneBrief, shares his journey from West Point to leading a mission planning revolution for the Department of Defense. He dives into the challenges of military staff planning and how OneBrief streamlines collaboration, aided by cutting-edge AI technology. Demaree discusses the emotional hurdles of rapid company scaling, stresses the importance of culture, and offers invaluable advice for transitioning veterans, highlighting self-awareness as a key to success in their new careers.

Welcome to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Tyler Sweatt, CEO of Second Front Systems and partner at the Silicon Valley Defense Group. With a dynamic background that includes military service, sales leadership, and now leading a cutting-edge public benefit corporation, Tyler shares insights on navigating the complexities of defense innovation and scaling a high-growth business.Tyler discusses the mission of Second Front Systems, leading fundraising for a startup, and growing his team from 10 to over 130. Tyler also opens up about the challenges and opportunities of leading in the defense sector.He offers actionable advice for veterans transitioning out of the military, emphasizing the value of sales skills and the potential to make a significant impact in the defense industry. Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or industry professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways.Discover more about Second Front Systems at secondfront.com and connect with Tyler on LinkedIn to keep the conversation going. 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

This week, we’re thrilled to feature Mike Frank, Deputy Chief Technology Officer of the U.S. Navy. Mike’s journey is one of dynamic leadership, transitioning from the Marine Corps to consulting roles and now tackling innovation challenges in federal service.Mike shares his insights on the unique opportunities and challenges of working in public service, including how veterans can bring their skills to solve some of the toughest problems facing the nation. He discusses his work at the Marine Innovation Unit, the importance of bridging the gap between private industry and government, and how the Department of the Navy is prioritizing cutting-edge technologies to maintain a competitive edge.Mike also provides valuable advice for transitioning veterans, explains how to engage with the government as a civilian or entrepreneur, and makes a strong case for the reserves as a way to stay connected to mission-driven work.Connect with Mike Frank:Visit the Department of the Navy CIO website for more information.Reach out to Mike 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 to The MilVet Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Frank Baumann and Boe Nankivel, operating partners at Cold Bore Capital, a veteran-founded private equity firm focused on the lower middle market. Frank and Boe share their journeys from military service—including Boe’s time as a Navy SEAL and Frank’s experience in Navy intelligence—to the world of private equity.We explore Cold Bore’s unique approach to driving value through operational improvements, its emphasis on hiring veterans, and how servant leadership plays a pivotal role in transforming businesses. Frank and Boe dive into the challenges of transitioning to civilian careers, the importance of mentorship, and the opportunities private equity offers for veterans looking to apply their leadership skills in high-impact roles.Learn more about Cold Bore Capital and its innovative model by visiting their website. 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 Rob Henderson, author of Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class. From a childhood in foster care to serving in the U.S. Air Force and earning degrees from Yale and Cambridge, Rob’s journey is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the transformative power of military service.In this episode, Rob shares how the structure of the Air Force and key mentors helped him rewrite his story, overcome adversity, and achieve academic and professional success. His reflections on navigating life’s challenges offer powerful lessons for veterans and beyond.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation—and be sure to pick up Rob’s memoir, Troubled, available here. 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 MilVet podcast episode, guest Dave Won explores how childhood experiences shape financial behaviors and stress. He addresses the societal taboo around discussing money, unique challenges for veterans, and the importance of self-advocacy in negotiations. Dave shares insights on emotional drivers of financial decisions, practical budgeting tips, and understanding your relationship with money. Listen here to master your money mindset and better understand your relationship with money.For more information on how to better understand your relationship with finances go to https://www.davewon.co/ Enjoy the show! 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 to the Military Veteran Podcast! In today's episode, we’re excited to host Steve Gilman, the co-founder and CEO of OneRange, alongside Carina Cho and Lenore Karafa. Steve has an incredible, multifaceted background, —from being a Major League Baseball athlete to an Intelligence Officer and now a successful entrepreneur. We dive into his journey, the lessons he's learned along the way, and how his diverse experiences have shaped the creation of OneRange—a platform designed to help organizations grow smarter, more connected teams.In this episode, Steve takes us through his career path, from his early days as a mechanical engineer and baseball player to his time in the Defense Intelligence Agency. He shares how these experiences led him to start his first company, Blockparty, and later pivot to his current venture, OneRange. Steve discusses the challenges and rewards of building a business, particularly in the realm of people development and upskilling, and how the company is addressing one of the biggest issues facing organizations today—empowering talent through personalized learning. 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