Shows
The Startup DefenseCollaborative Innovation, Dark Corners, and Mission Cultivate with Robert FehlenCallye Keen interviews Robert Fehlen about his work with Mission Cultivate and Dark Corner Solutions. They discuss the importance of community and networking in the defense innovation space, the challenges of duplication of efforts within military projects, and the need for a centralized platform to connect industry capabilities with military needs. Robert shares insights on the significance of teaming in defense contracts and the future plans for Mission Cultivate, which aims to create a more effective ecosystem for defense innovation.TakeawaysRobert Fehlen's passion is rooted in his family's military background.Dark Corner Solutions...
2025-08-2730 minThe Startup DefenseRapid Innovation, Manufacturing Transparency, and Authentise with Andre WegnerAndre Wegner believes the biggest choke-point in defense manufacturing isn’t hardware—it’s the months (or years) lost inside data-starved black boxes. He and host Callye Keen unpack how capturing every shred of context across design, engineering, and shop-floor workflows—then feeding it to AI—can turn a decade-long program into a months-long sprint. If you care about rebuilding U.S. industrial agility, hit play.Topics We CoverWhy “idea → part” speed is now a national-security metricThe cost of invisible data: 16k+ parts “too expensive to reverse engineer”Creating a new categoryKey TakeawaysTransparency be...
2025-07-3034 minThe Startup DefenseKinetic Autonomous Counter UAS, Serial Entrepreneurship, and Allen Control Systems with Steve SimoniCallye Keen and Steve Simone discuss the evolving landscape of defense technology, particularly in countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Steve shares his passion for building businesses in this sector, the challenges of developing effective counter-drone solutions, and the importance of private capital in fostering innovation. They explore the dynamics of the defense market, the acquisition processes, and the need for startups to anticipate future requirements rather than react to current demands.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Defense Tech and Passion for Building01:38 The Shift to Counter UAS and Drone Warfare03:58 Challenges in Developing Kinetic Solutions
2025-07-2420 minThe Startup DefenseSpeed of Relevance, Maritime Autonomy, and Defense Acquisition with Noam OzCallye Keen interviews Noam Oz, a former director of innovation operations at Naval X, discussing his extensive background in defense and technology innovation. They explore the challenges of navigating the defense acquisition landscape, the importance of iterative development, and the need for effective communication between operators and solution providers. Noam emphasizes the significance of understanding risk and readiness in defense technology, as well as the potential of new acquisition pathways like SBIRs and OTAs. The discussion also touches on future trends in defense technology, particularly the need for modularity and adaptability in solutions.Takeaways...
2025-07-0235 min
GovCon UnscriptedBuilding Defense Tech That Actually ScalesWhat does it take to actually build and scale physical innovation in GovCon?In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Callye Keen, CEO of KForm and host of Startup Defense, to explore the real challenges of bringing new defense technology to market from startup myths to manufacturing realities.We cover:🛠️ The hard truths of scaling defense tech📉 Why most SBIR-funded startups never transition💡 What “innovation as a service” actually looks like🤝 Why partnerships (not pitches) win contracts🧠 A smarter approach to requirements developmentTimestamps:[00...
2025-06-1747 minThe Startup DefenseNavigating Acquisition Changes, Rapid Prototyping, and Collaborative Compositions with Chelsea MeggittCallye Keen and Chelsea Roberts (Meggitt) discuss the evolving landscape of the defense industry, particularly for small businesses. Chelsea shares insights on recent changes in government contracting, the importance of rapid prototyping, and the need for small businesses to adapt to new acquisition processes. They also explore the role of Collaborative Compositions in supporting small businesses and the common pitfalls to avoid in government contracting. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Defense Industry and Small Business Opportunities02:00 Recent Changes in the Defense Acquisition Landscape07:20 The Importance of Rapid Prototyping and User Feedback12:45 Navigating Traditional vs. N...
2025-06-1136 minThe Startup DefenseHuman Capital, Informal Networks, and Defense Entrepreneurs Forum with Jesse LevinCallye Keen sits down with community-builder Jesse Levin to explore why people, not hardware, are the decisive edge in modern defense. From grassroots networks in Ukraine to DEF’s “virtuous insurgency,” the conversation unpacks how informal connectors accelerate innovation and why manufacturing talent is America’s silent super-power.Topics We CoverHuman capital as the “non-sexy” but essential innovation layerLessons from two-plus years on the ground in Ukraine and the rise of 24-hour tech cyclesManufacturing-at-the-edge and fixing gear in theaterDEF 2.0, local AgorasRe-energizing trades & STEM talent for national resilienceKey TakeawaysHumans over hardware. Innovatio...
2025-06-1126 minThe Startup DefenseMarket Intelligence, Defense Collaboration, and Pryzm with Matt HawkinsCallye Keen and Matt Hawkins discuss the evolving landscape of market intelligence in the defense sector, emphasizing the importance of relationships, rapid technology integration, and the challenges faced by startups. They explore the significance of teaming strategies, the procurement process, and emerging technology trends, particularly in autonomy and material science. The discussion highlights the need for innovative solutions to address complex problems and the iterative processes required for successful technology development.TakeawaysRelationships are crucial in the national security ecosystem.Understanding the market landscape is essential for startups.Bureaucratic processes hinder innovationTeaming with other...
2025-06-0346 minThe Startup DefenseOpen-Source Intelligence, the Data Advantage, and Bazze with Sammy SemwanguIn this episode of The Startup Defense, host Callye Keen speaks with Sammy Semwangu, founder and CEO of Bazze, an intelligence targeting and early warning platform. The conversation dives deep into the strategic shift toward leveraging commercial data for defense and national security operations. Sammy shares his journey from the intelligence and special operations community to founding a startup that challenges how the U.S. government acquires and uses data.Bazze helps U.S. and allied defense organizations access real-time, unclassified commercial data—ranging from device location to satellite imagery—on a "query in p...
2025-05-1526 minThe Startup DefenseStrategic Communications, Government Relations, and Your Washington Office with Nic AdamsCallye Keen interviews Nick Adams from Washington Office, discussing the intersection of technology and policy, particularly in the defense sector. They explore the importance of strategic communications, business development, and government relations for startups, emphasizing the need for effective representation in Washington. Nick shares insights from his legislative experience, including the Chips for America Act, and highlights the changing narrative around manufacturing and the opportunities that arise amidst the chaos in DC.TakeawaysA lot to be excited about in defense tech.Startups must actively participate in shaping the future.Speed is critical for startups seeking...
2025-04-1628 minThe Startup DefenseConnecting Innovators and Military, Tightening the OODA Loop, and SigmaBlox with Paul "Gu$" GarciaCallye Keen and Paul Gus Garcia discuss the intersection of innovation and national security technology. They explore the challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between emerging technologies and military needs, emphasizing the importance of defining outcomes, effective prototyping, and the role of decision-makers in facilitating innovation. The discussion highlights the SigmaBlox initiative, which aims to connect innovators with military end-users to validate and implement new solutions.TakeawaysPaul is passionate about technology for national security.There is a significant digital divide in technology adoption.SigmaBlox aims to bring together a community around national security tech...
2025-04-0233 minThe Startup DefenseTRANSEC, Developing Hard Tech, and Rampart with Keith PalmisanoCallye Keen and Keith Palmisano discuss the innovative work being done at Rampart in the field of communication technology, particularly in defense applications. They explore the importance of understanding the physical layer of communication, the challenges of developing hard tech, and the significance of customer-centric product development. Keith shares insights on navigating the complexities of the startup landscape, including the 'valley of death' that many hard tech founders face, and emphasizes the need for collaboration within the startup community to drive innovation.TakeawaysRampart is innovating in the communication space, focusing on defense...
2025-03-1933 minThe Startup DefenseEvolving Wireless Communications, Transitioning to Tech CEO, and SatCube with Chase BlantonCallye Keen interviews Chase Blanton from SatCube, delving into the evolving landscape of the space economy and advanced communications. They discuss the future of wireless communication, the challenges of navigating national security in defense tech, and Chase's personal journey from military communications to leading a tech startup. The conversation highlights the importance of user experience in technology, the potential of quantum computing, and the need for agility in the rapidly changing tech environment.TakeawaysThe space economy is rapidly evolving with new technologies.Quantum edge computing will revolutionize communications.The future of connectivity may...
2025-03-1031 minThe Startup DefenseEvolving Careers, Democratizing Satellite Imagery, and SkyFi with Luke Fischer Callye Keen talks with Luke Fischer, CEO and co-founder of SkyFi, about democratizing satellite technology. Luke shares his journey from military service to tech entrepreneurship, detailing the innovations at SkyFi that make satellite imagery and data more accessible and affordable. They discuss into the challenges of satellite technology, the future of the industry, and Luke's role in the upcoming community event "Austin 4 America." SkyFi is changing the landscape by allowing users from various sectors to easily task satellites and utilize earth intelligence like never before. Episode Highlights:Luke Fischer's Journey: From serving in...
2025-02-1932 minThe Startup DefenseCollaboration, Intelligence, and Overwatch Imaging with Greg DavisGreg Davis, founder of Overwatch Imaging, shares insights into his journey from working in large aerospace companies to starting his own venture. He discusses the importance of community, collaboration, and partnerships in the defense tech industry, as well as the innovative solutions Overwatch is developing to automate overhead intelligence collection. Greg emphasizes the challenges of building a startup in a complex market and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.TakeawaysGreg is passionate about making a big impact through Overwatch Imaging.The journey from corporate to startup is driven by market opportunities and personal challenges...
2025-02-0528 min
The Integrated EntrepreneurEpisode 48 Simplicity SellsSend us a textEPISODE 48 Simplicity SellssummaryIn this conversation, Jonathan Fodera interviews Callye Keen, a leading operator in the manufacturing industry. They discuss the evolution of K4 Manufacturing, the importance of social media in business, and the complexities of operations. Callye emphasizes the need for clarity in communication, the value of hiring experts, and the role of automation in modern business. They also explore the significance of simplifying processes and focusing on core competencies to drive growth and success.takeawaysSocial media...
2024-11-1232 min
The Tactical EmpireCallye Keen: Building Authentic Business RelationshipsIn this episode of the Tactical Empire, Shawn interviews Callye Keen, a leader in the men's mastermind Inner Circle. They discuss Callye’s journey in business, particularly his transition from product development to creating strategic partnerships and dual-use technology for defense innovation. Callye shares insights on building strong business relationships and moving beyond vanity metrics in favor of meaningful personal connections. The conversation touches on the significance of strategic partnerships, not only in large businesses but also for small businesses, and how these can lead to significant business growth and new opportunities. They conclude by discussing Callye’s current focu...
2024-10-1031 minThe Startup DefenseReindustrializing America, Democratize the Air, and Firestorm Labs with Dan MagyIn this episode of The Startup Defense, Callye Keen sits down with Dan Magy, exited founder and CEO of Firestorm, to explore the future of UAVs, the reindustrialization of America, and the challenges of defense innovation. They dive into the evolving role of drones in modern warfare, the barriers faced by smaller defense companies, and how Firestorm is revolutionizing manufacturing at scale for defense technologies.Topics Discussed:[0:00] Introducing Dan MagyCallye introduces Dan Magy, discussing his background in drones and counter-UAV technologies.[0:55] The Changing Face of Warfare
2024-09-1832 min
Being an EngineerS5E36 Callye Keen | How to Accelerate the Speed of Engineering, Episode 2Send us a textThis is the second episode in a series focused on how to accelerate the speed of engineering. Callye Keen shares his insights and strategies for speeding up engineering projects, including addressing common bottlenecks, leveraging cross-functional collaboration, and utilizing tools and technologies to improve efficiency.Main Topics:Balancing autonomy and asking for help among engineersStrategies for failing fast and inexpensively through prototypingImportance of creating a psychologically safe environment for engineersBest practices for cross-functional team collaborationEffective tools and technologies for accelerating engineeringLessons learned from attempts to speed up projectsAbout the...
2024-09-061h 05
Sew Much More427 - Phillips Workroom with Mary and Callye PhillipsMary Phillips is the owner of Phillips Window Workroom, a custom drapery and soft home furnishings workroom in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. Mary has been in the industry for over 40 years, first starting with upholstery with her Sister-In-Law, creating relationships with clients and vendors and then going off on her own out of the house. In 2003, Mary found a location in Chadds Ford and moved out of the house and the rest has been history! Mary has three children with her husband, Mike, a sweet dog Ruby and a huge loving family that loves spending time together and going on vacations...
2024-08-251h 28The Startup DefenseStreamlining DoD Innovation, Breaking Bureaucratic Barriers, and NSIN with David SchiffIn this episode of The Startup Defense, host Callye Keen talks with David Schiff from the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN). They explore David's extensive work in defense innovation and discuss the crucial programs and opportunities available for innovators looking to contribute to national security. David shares insights on fostering collaboration across different sectors, the significance of human-centered design, and the role of NSIN in accelerating defense-related technologies from early stages to commercialization. This episode provides valuable information for anyone interested in navigating the defense innovation landscape.[00:01:00] David Schiff’s Passion and Background David shares hi...
2024-07-2435 minThe Startup DefenseReal Non-Dilutive Funding, Champagne Problems, and Leonid Capital Partners with James ParkerIn this episode of The Startup Defense, host Callye Keen sits down with James Parker from Leonid Capital Partners to dive deep into the financial strategies essential for defense startups. They discuss the crucial phase of avoiding the dreaded "Valley of Death," where many promising startups falter. James shares insights on leveraging government contracts for non-dilutive funding, the importance of maintaining equity, and how Leonid Capital’s innovative credit-focused approach provides vital support for companies tackling national security challenges. They explore real-world scenarios, from securing initial SBIR awards to managing significant contract wins, and offer practical advice for founders na...
2024-07-1030 minThe Startup DefenseAsymmetric Innovation, Non-traditional Defense Contractors, and Nautilus with Graham PlasterIn this episode of Startup Defense, host Callye Keen welcomes Graham Plaster, the Director of Nautilus at Defensewerx. Graham discusses his passion for bridging the gap between American innovators and warfighters, sharing insights into his journey from the military to defense innovation. He explains how his background and entrepreneurial spirit led him to play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between the tech world and the defense sector.Key Topics:Introduction to Graham Plaster:Graham's background in the military and his entrepreneurial roots.His current role at DefenseWerx and his focus on...
2024-05-2926 minThe Startup DefenseRedefining Autonomy, Sibling Co-Founders, and Shield AI with Brandon TsengOn this episode of The Startup Defense, Callye Keen speaks with Brandon Tseng, former Navy SEAL and co-founder of Shield AI, a company at the forefront of defense technology, specializing in AI-driven autonomous systems. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of AI from concept to implementation in military aviation, including autonomous F-16 dogfights and the broader implications for future warfare.Brandon shares his transition from Navy SEAL to tech entrepreneur, driven by a deep passion for enhancing national security and global stability through advanced technology. He discusses the inception of Shield AI with his...
2024-05-1535 minThe Startup DefenseNurturing Curiosity, Hacking for Defense, and Marine Innovation Unit with William TresederCallye Keen speaks with William Treseder, Chief Strategy Officer at the Marine Innovation Unit and SVP at BMNT, a pivotal organization in the defense innovation space. William shares insights from his diverse career, discussing everything from 3D printing with his kids to complex defense contracting and the changing landscape of defense technology innovation.Key Topics Discussed:Journey into Defense Innovation: William traces his path from the Marine Innovation Unit to his current role at BMNT, highlighting how his past experiences influence his approach to innovation.Impact of 3D Printing: Exploration...
2024-04-2442 minThe Startup DefenseMisson-Driven Innovation, Making the Improbable Possible, and Harpoon Ventures with Larsen JensenEpisode Summary:In this episode of "The Startup Defense," Callye Keen sits down with Larsen Jensen, a former SEAL and Olympic athlete, who is making significant strides in the world of impact investing through his work with Harpoon. Larsen discusses his journey from a rural upbringing through elite athletics and military service to becoming a pivotal figure in defense-focused venture capital. He shares insights into the power of private capital to drive innovation in defense technologies and the importance of dual-use applications.Highlighted Topics:Larsen's Diverse Background: From his...
2024-04-1738 minThe Startup DefenseBig Tech Enters Defense, Tracking AI Disruption, and Startup Success with Robert SheltonIn this episode, Robert Shelton, a retired tech industry professional, discusses his passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on various industries. He shares his background working at Microsoft and the company's role in the AI revolution. Shelton also highlights the transformation of the tech industry in the federal space, particularly in national security and intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of working with startups and small companies, as they often drive innovation and bring fresh perspectives to the market. Shelton explores the potential impact of AI on knowledge worker jobs and discusses the changing job landscape. He concludes...
2024-04-0331 minThe Startup DefenseNear-shoring in Mexico, Southern California Manufacturing Renaissance, and SEACOMP with Terry ArbaughThis conversation explores the shift from manufacturing in China to Mexico, particularly in the context of the Southern California manufacturing renaissance. The guest, Terry Arbaugh, discusses the benefits of manufacturing in Mexico, including proximity to the US market and the ability to work closely with customers. The conversation also touches on the opportunities in defense tech and the potential for regulation changes to support domestic sourcing. The importance of getting people excited about manufacturing and the impact it can have on communities is highlighted.TakeawaysManufacturing in Mexico offers benefits such as proximity to...
2024-03-0644 minThe Startup DefenseDefense Tech Misconceptions, Detangling the Sales Process, and Using AI to Speed Proposals with John FerryWelcome back to The Startup Defense, in this week’s episode Callye Keen talks with John Ferry about innovation in government contracting. Ferry shares his background from military service to working acquisitions. Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce John FerryCallye Keen introduces John Ferry, CEO of UseRogue.com, an organization blazing the trail of applying AI to the GovCon industry. [02:12] The DARPA Experience and Technology Transition Ferry's recount of his tenure at DARPA illuminates the process of transitioning technology from labs to operational forces. This segment explores the nuances of bringing inno...
2024-02-2135 minThe Startup DefenseNational Defense Data Analytics, Building Talented Teams, and Royce Geo with Dave SterlingDave Sterling of Royce Geo and Callye Keen (Kform) discuss the fusion of commercial technology, complex data, and national security. Sterling's unique perspective on the intersection of defense, technology, and startup culture offers invaluable insights for innovators and leaders in the defense sector.Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce Dave SterlingCallye Keen introduces Dave Sterling, CEO of Royce Geo a leader within the IC and DoD in enterprise IT, advanced analytics, and intelligence modernization, rapidly increasing intelligence production, situational awareness and delivering answers to some of the hardest issues currently facing US national security.
2023-12-0639 minThe Startup DefenseRemote Work Cybersecurity, AI Business Automation, and Capital Presence with Roy EdwardsIn EP032 of "The Startup Defense," host Callye Keen engages with Roy Edwards, an expert in business automation and remote work. This insightful dialogue delves into the nuances of integrating AI and automation in both government agencies and commercial businesses. Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce Roy Edwards Callye Keen introduces Roy Edwards, President & Chief Operations Officer at Capital Presence, where he helps Organizations and the Military to #WorkWherever while being more productive using Microsoft Power Platform. [06:13] Embracing Automation and AI Discussing the early resistance and current embrace of automation, Roy Edwards hig...
2023-11-2941 minThe Startup DefenseSpeaking Defense Funding, AFWERX as a Catalyst, and Gallium Solutions with Eric FrahmIn the riveting EP031 of "The Startup Defense," host Callye Keen engages with Eric Frahm from Gallium Solutions. This episode unveils the transformative trends in defense innovation, focusing on the integration of commercial technology into national defense. They explore the significant role of dual-use technologies and the evolving landscape of defense startups. Frahm, with his insights from AFWERX to Gallium, offers a compelling view of the future of defense innovation and its impact on national security.Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce Eric Frahm Callye Keen introduces Eric Frahm, founder of Gallium Solutions, where Eric a...
2023-11-2234 minThe Startup DefenseInvesting in Veterans, Founder and Startup Team Resilience, and TFX Capital with Brandon SheltonJoin host Callye Keen in an insightful conversation with Brandon Shelton, founder of TFX Capital, as they delve into the unique world of venture capital, resilience, and the unparalleled qualities of veteran entrepreneurs. Discover the essence of entrepreneurial success and how military backgrounds foster resilience in the business arena.Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce Brandon SheltonCallye Keen introduces Brandon Shelton, founder of TFX Capital. As the Managing Partner of TFX, Brandon leads the firm’s service-driven investment strategy.[03:45] The Unseen Role of FoundersFounders play a pivotal but often unseen role...
2023-11-1544 minThe Startup DefenseAI Defense Manufacturing, Enabling Versus Eliminating, and the Problem-centric Approach with Terry MillerIn this engaging episode of "The Startup Defense," Callye Keen delves into the fascinating realm of AI and generative modeling in the manufacturing and defense sectors with Terry Miller. Discover how AI technologies are reshaping industries and the challenges they face. Dive deep into the vital importance of defining clear problems before seeking technical solutions. Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce Terry MillerCallye Keen introduces Terry Miller, Executive Director-Global Advanced Analytics at Johnson Controls, is an experienced Analytics service leader with a demonstrated history of working in the industrial automation industry. [01:23] Unlocking M...
2023-11-0831 min
Work Wherever PodcastEp. 072 The AI Revolution with Callye KeenOn this Monday's episode of the Work Wherever Podcast Roy is joined by Callye Keen - founder of Kform, entrepreneur, business coach and host of The Startup Defense Podcast to chat all things AI.
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2023-11-071h 28The Startup DefenseProduct-Market Fit, Engaging the Defense Industrial Base, and Evangelical Social Proof with Mark HoldenIn this episode, Callye Keen engages with Mark Holden, a defense innovation expert in an insightful discussion on innovation in the defense industry. They delve into the challenges and opportunities within the defense industrial base, addressing topics such as scaling the force, modernization priorities, and the need for technological advancements in the ever-evolving landscape of great power competition.Topic Highlights:[00:00] Introduce Mark HoldenCallye Keen introduces Mark Holden, founder of HOLDEN, a professional services firm dedicated to offering top-notch content marketing and robust market strategy for companies, big and small, within the...
2023-11-0143 minThe Startup DefensePrototyping as a Foundation, Bootstrapping Startups, and Matbock with Sean MatsonJoin host Callye Keen in this insightful episode featuring Sean Matson, co-founder of MATBOCK. Sean's journey from a Navy SEAL to a successful entrepreneur is both inspiring and educational. Together, they discuss the intricacies of innovation, product development, and the defense industry. Topic Highlights:[00:00] - A Message from Host Callye KeenCallye shares with the audience a message regarding his audio quality. This was an important podcast to release, so while Callye’s audio quality is slightly degraded, Guest Sean Matson’s is good.[00:46] - Introduce Sean MatsonCallye Keen...
2023-10-2534 minThe Startup DefenseArmy Software Factory, CMMC Impact, and ATX Defense with Zach WalkerIn this episode of "The Startup Defense," hosted by Callye Keen, we delve into the complex world of cybersecurity and defense innovation. Joined by cybersecurity expert Zach Walker, the discussion revolves around the evolving landscape of security regulations, including the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Topic Highlights:[00:00] - Introduce Zach WalkerCallye Keen introduces Zach Walker, Co-founder ATX Defense, an organization that helps national security organizations integrate revolutionary technology, scalable processes, and long-term viability into operations.[02:55] - Understanding CMMC and Its Evolution Zach Walker introduces the Cybersecurity Ma...
2023-10-1835 min