Shows
Mission Critical: Defense RecruitingHow Direct-to-Device Satellites Are Changing Military Communications | Tim HillnerWhat if military satellite communications worked on standard cell phones? Not as a future concept, but today. In this episode of Mission Critical: Defense and Aerospace Recruiting, Katherine Jerald is joined by Tim Hillner, co-founder of Fairwinds Technologies, to unpack a breakthrough that is redefining tactical communications. Tim and his team recently demonstrated the world's first tactical direct-to-device satellite connectivity using standard, unmodified commercial cell phones with no custom hardware required. Working alongside AST SpaceMobile, Fairwinds validated secure voice, data, and mission applications over a non-terrestrial network, marking a significant shift in how military...
2026-02-0429 min
The Pinnacle TakeRebranding Your Destiny: Katherine Jerald’s $885K First Year, $261K DM Win, and GovCon Recruiting SecretsAre you ready to break through plateaus and build a recruitment business that truly scales? In this episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with aerospace and defense recruiting powerhouse Katherine Jerald to unveil the real story behind her first-year billings of $885K, including the secrets to landing a $261K direct message deal on LinkedIn and thriving in the lucrative GovCon sector. Katherine Jerald shares her journey from working in her father's recruiting office at age 12 to founding her own firm and scaling a high-performing team, all while tracking the metrics that matter and personal...
2026-01-1947 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingCEO Reveals Why Small Engineering Firms Are the Future of Space | Janet GrondinSmall engineering firms are not just competing with the primes… they may be the future of national security space. Janet Grondin, CEO of Stellar Solutions, joins Mission Critical to explain why small systems engineering companies are positioned to solve the hardest problems in the space ecosystem, and why culture has become a strategic advantage. With more than 27 years of leadership across the Air Force, Space Force and Northrop, Janet has seen every side of the industry. At Stellar, she leads a company built on a culture of empowerment that removes bureaucracy and lets engineers solve mi...
2026-01-0735 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingFrank Muth: Small Drones Are Changing the Future of WarSmall drones are no longer just tools... they're transforming the very nature of warfare. Retired Major General Frank Muth joins Mission Critical to explain why the battlefield of tomorrow is already here, and how Deltawerx Aerospace is building drones designed for it. Frank shares the mission of Deltawerx Aerospace; building ultra-compact drones with changeable payloads that deploy in seconds. With over 200 patents and a product the size of a deck of cards, Deltawerx is answering the Army's call to arm every warfighter with their own drone—now, not five years from now. If you work in...
2025-12-0330 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingOnkar Singh Batra: The 19-Year-Old Building Space's Next Internet04At just nineteen, Onkar Singh Batra is redefining what it means to lead in aerospace. As founder and CEO of Apolink, a YC-backed startup building a 24/7 Internet for satellites, he's tackling one of space's most complex challenges; eliminating communication dead zones in low Earth orbit. In this episode, Onkar shares how he went from launching satellites in high school to leading a Silicon Valley space-tech company, what he's learned about leadership before his 20th birthday, and why true innovation in aerospace comes from those willing to think differently. "You can't go at it alone...
2025-11-0531 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Empathy Engine: MilDef's Sales Team Secret | Jim RimayKatherine welcomes Jim Rimay, President of MilDef US, a systems integrator and full-spectrum provider specializing in rugged IT for the most demanding military and government environments. With Swedish roots and a growing U.S. presence, MilDef is bridging two worlds, bringing Nordic collaboration and balance to the fast-paced American defense market. Jim shares how cultural integration, customization, and a "win-win" mindset are driving MilDef's expansion and redefining what it means to lead in defense technology. "No lone wolf out here is going to make it. What we're selling is a whole company approach to supporting...
2025-10-2222 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingJon Ostrower: The Quiet Strategy Behind Aerospace's Most Trusted NewsroomYou can now follow mission critical on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MissionCriticalSearch In a time when AI-generated noise clutters every feed, Jon Ostrower is doing the opposite; Building a trusted, slow growth media brand rooted in depth, clarity, and real human connection. In this episode, Jon shares the founding story of The Air Current and the contrarian media bet that made it one of aerospace's most respected outlets. From his time at CNN and The Wall Street Journal to launching a premium aerospace newsletter, Jon walks us through how The Air Current avoids...
2025-10-0135 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingInside Airbus U.S: Debra Facktor on Why People and Culture Drive Space InnovationWhat makes a space company win? According to Debra Facktor, it's not just engineering — it's the people. As Head of U.S. Space Systems at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc., Debra has led the organization through one of its boldest pivots to date — from a missed contract opportunity to becoming a key player in the SDA's Tranche 1 and 2 programs. But as she reveals in this conversation, the real transformation wasn't just technical. It was cultural. In this episode, Debra explains how Airbus U.S. scaled up operations, developed a new satellite bus, and embraced spee...
2025-08-0630 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingWhat It Takes to Scale in Aerospace: Global Talent, Smarter Buses & the End of One-Size-Fits-All | Tina Ghataore (Aerospacelab)What's the secret behind one of the fastest-scaling satellite companies in Europe? According to Tina Ghataore, it's not just tech — it's talent, vertical integration, and the courage to challenge industry narratives. In this episode, Tina Ghataore, Chief Strategy and Revenue Officer at Aerospacelab, reveals the leadership and strategy behind building a global satellite business with staying power. From the upcoming launch of their mega factory to the complexities of international defense markets, Tina shares how Aerospacelab is pushing beyond the "one-box-fits-all" approach and designing spacecraft with real mission flexibility. She also opens up about her gl...
2025-07-0932 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe $110M Deal Redefining Satellite Defense Connectivity | Per NorénWhat happens when innovation, mission-critical needs, and geopolitical shifts come together in one game-changing deal? In this episode, we talk to Per Norén, CEO of Ovzon AB, a Swedish satellite communications company that's leading the way in secure, mobile connectivity solutions. Per shares insights on Ovzon's $110 million contract with the Swedish Defense Material Administration, marking a milestone in mission-critical satellite connectivity. This isn't just about technology—it's about resilience, speed, and the future of satellite communications in defense. From breaking into the U.S. defense market to launching their Ovzon 3 satellite, Ovzon is paving the way for...
2025-06-1128 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Legal Landmines That Can Kill Your Funding Before It Starts | John Gordon & Shawn Cheadle, Attorneys at Taft Law"Compliance is a revenue driver, because you're going to attract more customers that want your business when your shop looks pristine." – Shawn Cheadle You've got a great product. You're chasing contracts. Maybe you're eyeing VC funding or dreaming of an IPO. But if you ignore legal and compliance early on, those dreams could blow up at the worst possible moment. In this episode, Katherine sits down with Taft Law experts John Gordon and Shawn Cheadle to break down the most common legal and compliance mistakes startups make—and how to fix (or better yet...
2025-05-0730 min
The Elite Recruiter Podcast$885K in One Year: How Katherine Jerald Turned LinkedIn DMs into $200K Clients & Crushed RecruitingAre you ready to discover the secret to landing $200K+ clients through LinkedIn DMs—and scaling your recruiting business to nearly $900K in your very first year?
If you’re a recruiter, agency owner, or anyone trying to break through the noise of today’s competitive talent market, you know how tough it is to win high-value clients, stand out online, and keep your pipeline full. In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with recruiting powerhouse Katherine Jerald, who reveals exactly how she generated $885,000 in her first year of bus...
2025-04-1747 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Outsider CEO Scaling Terran Orbital Into a Business Powerhouse | Peter Krauss"What this industry didn't need was another aerospace executive. It needed someone willing to ask why we do things the way we do" – Peter Krauss Peter Krauss didn't grow up in aerospace. He never worked in defense. So how did he become CEO of one of the most innovative space tech companies in the world? That's exactly what makes this episode of Mission Critical so powerful. As the new CEO of Terran Orbital, Peter brings a fresh, entrepreneurial lens to a legacy industry—and it's shaking things up. He's spearheading "Terran 2.0," a return to the comp...
2025-04-1625 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingWhy Playing It Safe in 2025 Will End Your Space Career with Mitch Stevison"the reality is people, through their careers, have been held back because of taking risk and failing" – Mitch Stevison The space industry is evolving at warp speed, and the leaders who will thrive are those willing to embrace disruption, challenge legacy thinking, and build resilient teams. In this episode, Mitch Stevison shares what future CEOs and executives in aerospace and defense must change to stay ahead in an era of rapid technological advancement and shifting global priorities. As commercial and government space initiatives accelerate, the demands on leadership are changing. The next generation of aerospace le...
2025-04-0235 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingHow SATCOM Disruption Could Risk National Security with Tim Winter"The last two to three years have brought more change to the satellite industry than the previous two decades combined." – Tim Winter In this episode of Mission Critical, Katherine Jerald sits down with Tim Winter, CEO of iDirect Government, to discuss the massive disruptions shaping the satellite communications (SATCOM) industry and what they mean for government, defense, and commercial players. Tim shares insights on how companies can compete in a rapidly evolving market, the role of LEO vs. GEO satellites, and why secure, multi-orbit communications are crucial for military operations. Drawing from his 20+ years in SA...
2025-03-1829 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Leadership Secrets That Make People Love Working For Chandra Marshall (VP Lockheed Martin)Ready for a masterclass in team building? Trailblazer Chandra Marshall from Lockheed Martin shares her journey from political science major to influential leader in multi-domain combat systems. Chandra's leadership style is anchored in psychological safety—creating environments where team members are free to voice their ideas and challenge the status quo, thereby driving innovation and effectiveness. Highlighting the power of diverse perspectives, she explains how inclusive decision-making not only overcomes biases but also fosters robust collaboration and problem-solving. In addition to leadership lessons, Chandra shares the personal challenges faced by women in leadership, pa...
2025-02-1927 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingWhy The New Space Economy Is the Gold Rush of Our Time with Ram RiojasWhy is this very moment in history being called the "gold rush of our time"? Retired Colonel Ram Riojas joins Katherine to tell us all. With 26 years of distinguished military service, Ram has been a trailblazer in the evolution of air, space, cyber and Special Ops, as a founding member of the US Space Force and US Space Command, essentially helping shape the Space Force before it even existed. Ram has led budgets of up to 64 billion in space and cyber programs, shaping the future of national defense. Ram also walked the entrepreneurial path, founding Delta defense and scaling...
2025-02-0539 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Risks of Space Dependency: Are We Ready for the Fallout? with Tim Solms (Slingshot Aerospace CEO)Tim Solms, CEO of Slingshot Aerospace and former Apache pilot, is here to share his extraordinary journey from the cockpit to the cutting edge of space technology. Discover how space's vital role in our daily lives, from communications to finance, also makes us vulnerable to global threats. Tim delivers a stark warning about the dangers of ignoring space security, urging us to consider the implications of actions by nations like China and Russia. As a leader with experience spanning military and tech industries, Tim's insights on aligning technology with mission needs are invaluable. We dive into the...
2025-01-2229 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingHypersonic Innovation: The Race To Fly Faster with Dan Jablonsky What does it take to lead a company at the forefront of hypersonic technology? You're about to find out! Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Ursa Major, joins Katherine to unpack his unique journey from Navy nuclear engineer to attorney, and now, a visionary leader transforming aerospace innovation. With over 100 days as CEO, Dan shares his leadership philosophy, the power of adaptability, and how he's building a company culture where values are not just written on a wall, but are lived every single day. Dan also uncovers the fascinating link between humility and paranoia in business, and reveals how...
2025-01-0825 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingHow to Rapidly Monetize Your Knowledge with Dr Layla Martin What happens when space science patterns unlock the future of expertise. This week, Dr Layla Martin, a Harvard, Yale, and MIT alum, and the creator of the groundbreaking Orbit methodology, joins us to discuss how to turn your expert knowledge into income in today's AI-driven economy. As a space theorist and pattern recognition expert, Dr Martin reveals how she translates natural patterns into actionable monetization strategies, helping experts create sustainable, recurring revenue streams. Dr Martin also introduces her concept of Astrofeminism, a fresh perspective on space exploration that invites diverse voices and promotes inclusivity. Far from being...
2024-12-1131 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingWhat It Takes to Build a Billion-Dollar Company with Alfonzo Ianniello (Codan Limited)Imagine skyrocketing a company from $800 million to a multi-billion dollar entity—how is it done? This week our guest is Alfonzo Ianniello, the visionary CEO of Codan Limited. Codan is a manufacturer and supplier of communications, metal detection, and mining technology. It's products include Minelab, DTC & Zetron "Always be dissatisfied at all elements of the organization, whether it's your customer interactions, whether your internal processes or your tech roadmaps. Always be dissatisfied, always push for what good is and improve that current state." – Alfonzo Ianniello Alf unveils the strategic insights behind his success, emph...
2024-11-2731 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingBecome A Master Of Change in Three Simple Steps with Lee Steinke Ready to master change? This week, inspirational leader and a powerhouse in aerospace and energy, Lee Steinke, joins Katherine to discuss her uncommon career switch from the oil and gas sector to aerospace. Hear how, during the chaos of the pandemic, Lee seized the opportunity to pivot industries, using her geological expertise to find surprising similarities between drilling rigs and rocket launch pads. Lee also opens up about the emotional journey from being a senior executive to taking on unpaid volunteer work—and how it ultimately led her to her current roles as COO at Cislunar Industries and partner at...
2024-11-1331 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingFueling the Future and Diversyfying the skies with Nikki MalcolmWhat does it take to climb from an entry-level position to the executive suite in aerospace? Join us as Nikki Malcolm, CEO and Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance (PNAA), shares her incredible journey from an 18-year-old filing assistant to leading one of North America's largest commercial aerospace manufacturing clusters. Nikki's story is a testament to the power of curiosity, relationship-building, and problem-solving. Get ready to hear how her passion and skills drove double-digit sales growth and led her to spearhead innovation and community building within the industry. Throughout the discussion, Nikki highlights the pivotal...
2024-10-0930 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingHeather Bulk on Balancing CEO Life, Bootstrapping Success, and the Founder-to-Operator Shift Buckle up for an inspiring episode with Heather Bulk, the powerhouse CEO and co-founder of Special Aerospace Services. Over the past 17 years, Heather has propelled the company to impressive heights, growing it to over 250 employees and delivering cutting-edge tech and services to Space Force, NASA, and industry giants like Blue Origin and Northrop. But Heather's talents extend beyond the boardroom — she's also a skilled pilot. Recently named one of Forbes 50 Over 50 and Inc. Top 250 Founders, Heather is truly unstoppable. Join Heather as she delves into the complexities of government contracts, the crucial role of compliance, and how sh...
2024-09-2529 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingMastering Calculated Risks And The Art Of The Possible With Suzi McBrideWhat happens when calculated risks pay off? You're about to find out! This week, we welcome 'satellite queen', Suzi McBride, a true powerhouse and leading figure in the industry. As the COO and board member at Iridium, Suzi brings a wealth of technical expertise, having started her career building satellites at Motorola and making significant waves ever since. Join us as Suzi discusses her transition from management consultant to a prominent leader in the satellite world, sharing how her early passion for math and science, influential experiences in shop class, and initial consulting work paved the way for her...
2024-09-1133 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Formula For Success After Failure with Rick Nagel What drives a seasoned engineer to become a leader in private equity, and how can a company transform its identity to align with a new strategic vision? Join us as Rick Nagel, Managing Partner at Acorn Capital, shares his compelling journey from technology to leading a major rebranding effort in the aerospace and defense investment sector. Discover how Acorn Capital evolved from focusing on early-stage investments to middle-market buyouts, and learn about their extensive rebranding process. Ever wondered what it's really like when private equity firms buy out companies? Rick sheds light on the realities, dispelling myths...
2024-08-2838 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingBreaking The Billionaire Barrier: Opening Space To All with Jim CantrellBuckle up as Jim Cantrell, the maverick uncle of the space industry, joins us to chart his extraordinary journey from tinkering with household gadgets to pioneering projects at NASA's JPL. Now at the helm of Phantom Space, Jim is on a mission to democratize space travel, inspired by Henry Ford's principles of mass production. Get ready to discover how Phantom Space aims to open up the final frontier, making space missions affordable for individuals and corporations alike. Jim delves into the complexities of satellite launches and reveals how Phantom Space, with its mix of seasoned SpaceX veterans...
2024-08-1432 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingChampioning Women and Combatting Injustice in the Workplace with Fiona McKayCould the key to achieving gender diversity in your workplace lie in courageous leadership and male allyship? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Fiona McKay, a distinguished keynote speaker and expert in courageous leadership. From her tenure at Rolls-Royce to founding Leading Ladies during the pandemic, Fiona shares fascinating insights on the essential role of male allyship in empowering women and fostering gender diversity in the workplace. Discover practical strategies for men to support women's career advancement and explore how courageous leadership transcends mere confidence to drive career success and create a healthier workplace culture. Fiona...
2024-07-3133 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingLeadership: The Key Differentiator in Business Success with Alex KrutzThis week, Alex Krutz, the visionary founder of Patriot Industrial Partners, takes us on his unexpected military journey, inspired by honoring his parents' remarkable sacrifices. Hear how Alex funded his education, navigated pivotal career moments, and became an influential aerospace and defense advisory leader. From his early days in the military to working with industry giants, Alex's story is a testament to resilience and strategic thinking. He shares the turning points that led to the establishment and success of his firm, which now operates globally, making significant impacts across all corners of the globe. Alex uncovers the...
2024-07-1735 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingNavigating Leadership Shake-Ups and Rising to Challenges with Daniel GizinskiGet ready to dive into leadership shake-ups and dealing with unprecedented 'Oh Crap' moments head-on with this week's special guest, Daniel Gizinski, Chief Strategy Officer at ComTech. In this episode, Dan shares insights into his deep family roots and early career choices, including a strategic move to gain independent experience and how his impactful work with major players like General Electric and Sierra Nevada has shaped his vision for enhancing global connectivity. As ComTech navigates a leadership transition, Dan unpacks the importance of transparency, shared vision, and team cohesion during times of significant change, and reveals the secret to...
2024-07-0337 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingStrategic Secrets for Smooth Mergers & Acquisitions with Ryan MurphyStrategic Secrets for Smooth Mergers & Acquisitions with Ryan Murphy Get ready to unlock the secrets to successful mergers and acquisitions with this week's expert guest, Ryan Murphy, partner at Kal Capital. Kal Capital is a leading investment banking firm known for advising on major transactions. Ryan, who has been pivotal to Kal's growth, share his insights on what sets a lower middle market supplier apart in the aerospace and defense sector, the critical role EBITDA plays in business evaluation and why Ryan finds working with family-owned companies through their first major liquidity event so rewarding. R...
2024-06-1936 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingNo One Is Born A CEO: The Secrets of Successful Leadership Transitions with Michael Murray Prepare to embark on a captivating journey into the heart of a cultural revolution under new leadership with Michael Murray, the visionary CEO propelling Kopin into an era of innovation. From his childhood experiments building his own radio to his pivotal role in leading teams towards cutting-edge solutions, Michael shares his remarkable journey with Katherine, unveiling the secrets of successful leadership transitions and reminding us that no one is born a CEO. Delve into Kopin's groundbreaking leap into digital night vision technology and uncover Michael's unique approach to navigating complex challenges. Join us as we explore how...
2024-06-0531 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingBuilding a Workplace Worth Choosing: Cultivating Growth and Mutual Respect with Matt JonesEver wondered how to craft a team of champions and a culture of mutual respect? Well wonder no more as we welcome Matt Jones, the trailblazing President and CEO of Sigma Defense, recently recognized as one of Washington's top executives to watch in 2024. In this episode, Matt peels back the layers of his remarkable story of transformation from a soccer enthusiast to a respected Navy cryptologist and a key player in the corporate arena. Matt takes us on a journey from startup to acquisition and shares his lessons learned from riding the full lifecycle of a company...
2024-05-2230 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingScalability Secrets: How to Build Teams and Systems for Success with David YuPrepare to dive deep into the realms of aviation finance and cross-border investments as David Yu joins Katherine this week. With his extensive expertise and global influence at the helm of Asia Aviation Valuation Advisors and China Aviation Valuation Advisors, David is set to enlighten us on the dynamic evolution of space financing, offering insider secrets to scalability and indispensable pre-valuation guidance every CEO should heed. With a wealth of experience, from building a $4 billion aircraft leasing portfolio to advising top-tier clients, David is here to share insights that could revolutionize your business approach. CEOs take note...
2024-05-0132 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingAscending through Adversity and Experiential Learning with Katie SelbeThis is your reminder never to let setbacks hinder your rise to success. This week, embark on a transformative journey with Katie Selbe, aerospace and defense virtuoso, as she narrates her climb to the C-suite of Eqlipse Technologies post an unexpected career twist. From navigating the aftermath of 9/11 to earning a life-changing scholarship, Katie shares the pivotal moments that shaped her career. Discover how Katie led Eqlipse through rapid growth and successfully steered the company through an aquisition by BlueHalo. Katie's journey is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and staying resilient in the face...
2024-04-2430 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingUnlocking Success: The Cosmic Connection of Preparation, Grit and Passion with Daniel WarrenDive into the cosmic connection of preparation, grit and passion with Daniel Warren, Vice President of Sales and Programs for the Americas and Japan at Latecoere. Daniel's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Daniel has propelled the aerospace sector to new heights with his strategic prowess, securing multimillion-dollar deals with industry giants like Boeing and fostering dynamic growth and collaboration across the global aerospace landscape. Join us as we uncover Daniel's visionary outlook on the future, where Aerospace, innovation, and perseverance come together. Daniel shares his transformative journey, revealing the profound impact of his adoption and the...
2024-04-1735 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThink Orbital's Disruptive Journey in Space Innovation with Lee RosenThe trajectory of a career in the space industry can be as unpredictable and exhilarating as a rocket launch, and Lee Rosen's journey is a prime example. Join us as we delve into the story of industry superstar Lee Rosen, CEO of Think Orbital, unveiling his pioneering vision poised to disrupt traditional constraints and discover how his experiences, from overseeing nuclear missiles to facilitating groundbreaking SpaceX launches, have profoundly influenced his visionary venture. Assembling a dream team isn't about filling seats; it's about finding those who thrive in high-pressure scenarios. Throughout the discussion, Lee shares his secret...
2024-04-1034 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingHow Data Innovation is Revolutionizing Aerospace and Defense with Torsten WelteAre you ready to uncover how data innovation is propelling aerospace and defense into a dynamic future? Join Torsten Welte, Global VP and Head of Aerospace and Defense at SAP, as he navigates the transformative power of data in reshaping the industry. This conversation is a blueprint for future leadership as Torsten discusses the balancing act required to prepare tomorrow's leaders, bridging the gap between seasoned pros' experience and the younger generation's innate digital fluency. Plus, Torsten reveals the importance of data-driven decision-making and shares valuable tips on how you can avoid being hit with technical debt. Wh...
2024-04-0335 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingLeading with Action: Fostering Resilience from the Ground Up with Wahid Nawabi"I faced life and death situations half a dozen times throughout my journey. The difference between surviving and dying was 51% to 49%." – Wahid Nawabi. Buckle up for a journey from the war-torn dusty streets of Afghanistan to the forefront of defense innovation with Wahid Nawabi, CEO of AeroVironment. Dive into Wahid's extraordinary ascent, uncovering how his early childhood trials have shaped him into a visionary CEO whose tactics have propelled his company into the defense industry limelight. As battlefields evolve, AeroVironment stands at the forefront of modern warfare. Discover their groundbreaking contributions, including their pivotal role in Ukraine's con...
2024-03-2736 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingCultivating Values as the Lifeblood of Business Culture with Ashley AnthonyPeople make a business, and for the first time on the podcast, we are shattering the ceiling on all things HR with Times Microwave Systems HR Director Ashley Anthony. When Ashley swapped her athletic training gear for the corporate battleground of HR in defense manufacturing, she didn't just change jobs - she transformed the recruitment game. Through Ashley's remarkable story, we uncover the strategies and dedication that propelled her through the ranks and learn how a company's ethos can become the lifeblood of its hiring process, bringing on board more than just skilled professionals but dedicated carriers of the...
2024-03-2030 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingBeyond Numbers: The Power of Human Connection in Business with Mladen Brkic Embark on a journey from the frontlines to finance this week with the formidable force, Mladen Brkic, as we journey from his days as a wartime translator to pioneering success from a young age, becoming the CFO of Ultra Intelligence and Communications. Mladen's life story reads like an epic tale of resilience, adaptability, and the triumph of the human spirit as he talks us through the synergy of strategy, relationships and finance. Mladen's tale is not just about the numbers but the human connections that fuel progress and resilience in business. Mladen shares how global experiences and...
2024-03-1335 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingFrom Aerospace Giants to Startup Thrills with Kelly HennigImagine stepping off the beaten path to forge a new one — that's exactly what female powerhouse Kelly Hennig of Stoke Space did. This week, Kelly unravels the story behind her audacious leap from the security of aerospace giants like Raytheon and Northrop to the exhilarating frontier of a startup. Tackling the contrasting corporate cultures and the quest for impactful, hands-on work, Kelly unpacks what it means to lead and innovate in the high-stakes world of rocket technology. So much ground gets covered in this episode as Kelly breaks down the art of hiring for not just skill bu...
2024-03-0632 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Power of Giving Back and Embracing Chaos with Eric WightmanBuckle up as this week we are taking you on an exhilarating journey from the adrenaline-fueled tracks of NASCAR to the stratospheric heights of the aerospace industry with Eric Wightman, VP of Advanced Materials and Processes at Karman Space and Defense. In this episode, Eric recounts his unconventional career trajectory, fueled by determination and a passion for pushing boundaries. Eric shares insights into how his early experiences in the high-octane world of racing shaped his work ethic. From pounding the pavement at racetracks to navigating the complexities of space exploration, Eric's story is one of relentless pursuit and unwavering...
2024-02-2829 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingHow Space Tech Impacts Our Daily Existence with Shelli BrunswickHave you ever considered how space innovations elevate our daily existence? This week, we hear from the inspirational Shelli Brunswick. From the day she swapped her high school cap and gown for Air Force blues, Shelli charted a course that would break boundaries and redefine the possibilities within the space industry. Shelli's journey from an enlisted airman to a trailblazing leader in space technology is nothing short of extraordinary. Through her story, we witness the remarkable impact of space advancements on our daily lives, influencing everything from healthcare to our efforts in combating climate change. Shelli also...
2024-02-2132 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingWarfare Wisdom: Leading the Charge in Defense with Neil ThurgoodHave you ever wondered about the immeasurable impact of a family legacy on a person's life path? Neil Thurgood, a retired US Army Lieutenant General, gives us a rare glimpse into how his military upbringing sculpted a career that defined innovation in space technology, hypersonics, and rapid acquisition. Neil's legacy in the Army is complemented by his current contributions to national defense, where he drives the future of warfare technology, particularly in hypersonics and directed energy. He shares heartfelt stories from his career, discusses the powerful bond between the armed forces and defense industries, and delves into military leadership's...
2024-02-1433 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingMaking Space Exploration Accessible to All with Robert FeierbachGet ready to embark on an interstellar journey with serial entrepreneur and aerospace titan Robert Feierbach as we hear how he is reshaping aerospace through microgravity flights and cutting-edge air launch services. Robert is the president of Maritime Launch USA and CEO of Zero G Launch. With three decades of experience, this episode is a cosmic voyage diving deep into an astonishing career that seamlessly blends technological innovation with cultural awareness. Discover the key to building high-performing teams, the power of reaching for the stars, and Robert's surprising road to Hollywood stardom. Hit play now to discover the limitless...
2024-02-0733 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingEmbracing Discomfort and Leading by Example with Vince MontepartePutting yourself out there and embracing discomfort can be tricky to navigate. However, the reward is undeniably worthwhile. Industry veteran, entrepreneur and titan of finance Vince Monteparte serves as a shining testament to this. This week, Vince joins Katherine to discuss his transformative professional journey, starting with his early fascination with aerospace and progressing through each step and pivot, shaping his remarkable path to where he stands today. From the adrenaline rush of his first flight aboard his father's business plane to steering the helm of industry innovation, Vince's tale is one of self-investment and determination. This...
2024-01-3133 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingAerospace Evolution: Shaping the Engineers of Tomorrow with Alex RamirezThe time for disruption in Aerospace is now, and joining Katherine this week is the visionary Alex Ramirez of Collinear Group, to share the trials and victories that come with injecting innovation into a sector ripe for change and the excitement of bridging the gap and driving innovation in the aerospace industry. In this episode, Alex opens up about his bakery roots, his recipe for innovation, the critical role of mentorship and education in shaping future engineers, the ebbs and flows of a business startup cycle and the challenges of growing a business amidst a global pandemic...
2024-01-2433 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingClaiming Space & Breaking the Waiting Game for Women with Nicole Robinson Join Nicole Robinson, the trailblazing Chief Growth Officer at Comtech, on an inspirational journey through the dynamic realms of space and defense. Nicole's remarkable career includes orchestrating historical milestones like the 60th D-Day anniversary and championing the Women in Space Engagement (WISE) initiative. In this episode, Nicole delves into the critical topic of breaking gender bias and offers actionable advice for women striving to leave an indelible mark in these industries. Explore how the WISE initiative empowers female leaders within aerospace with the support of male allies. Are you looking to onboard new talent? Gain fresh insights...
2024-01-1733 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingThe Human Essence in High-Performance Defense Teams with Marty AmenGet ready to delve into the world of team excellence with defense industry maestro and Vice President of Space Systems at Parsons, Marty Amen. Marty holds an illustrious career spanning pivotal roles at giants like Northrop and Cubic and joins us to share the humor and trials that shaped his journey, from beachside job motivations to navigating smoke-filled defense rooms. Cracking the code of assembling dynamic teams that transform 'good' into 'great' is no mean feat, and in this episode, Marty unravels the secrets behind cultivating high-performance teams. Marty reveals the extraordinary potential of recognizing and nurturing...
2024-01-1031 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingNavigating the Space and Defense Industry with Katherine GizinskiOur first episode has landed!! Get ready to embark on a captivating journey into the intricate world of space and defense with esteemed guest Katherine Gizinski. As the CEO of River Advisors and chairwoman of SSPI, Katherine shares her professional pathway that began unexpectedly with an internship which flourished into a passionate career. Delving into the profound impact of satellites on our world, Katherine unveils how this realm became her true calling—a place that feels like home. Katherine sheds light on the pivotal role internships and mentorship played in shaping her trajectory, inspiring others to explore th...
2024-01-0329 minMission Critical: Defense RecruitingWelcome to Mission CriticalPrepare for an explosive journey into the heart of defense recruitment like never before with the "Mission Critical: Defense Recruiting" podcast! Hosted by Katherine Jerald of Elray Search, this edgy series is your ultimate guide to unraveling the mysteries behind assembling top-notch teams in the defense industry. 🔍 In each high-octane 30-minute episode, we peel back the curtain to reveal the unconventional tactics, share gripping war stories, and bring you firsthand insights from the trailblazers who are revolutionizing defense recruitment. This isn't your average recruiting playbook; we're tearing up the rulebook and rewriting the narrative on what it tak...
2023-12-0501 minThe Pinnacle TakeExploring! The 360° Desk, Tech Stack of the Future, and ExplorersKatherine Jerald came into Pinnacle two years ago and shook it up…a new, bright voice that came from a family, franchise pedigree…she knows how the biz “has always been done”, respects it’s fundamentals, isn’t afraid to try new ways of doing it, and takes on the world with a bold, invigorating energy. She’s been an obsessive explorer since she was 10, and has the reenactment outfits to prove it!!
2023-10-2400 min
The Resilient RecruiterTop Producing Recruiter Reveals How to Win and Develop Key Accounts, with Katherine Jerald, Ep #178Top billers typically have one or more “cornerstone clients.” These key accounts are ones you can build your business on because they use you exclusively and give you lots of repeat business. My special guest, Katherine Jerald, is someone who’s mastered the art of client development. Katherine is the founder of Elray Search, a firm that is committed to solving the biggest talent needs of middle-market clients in the aerospace, satellite, and defense firm. She’s also a member of the Pinnacle Society. What’s fascinating about Katherine’...
2023-06-161h 01
Crafted With CradleKatherine Boxall & Chris Clamp - S2 FinaleDr. Keith Cradle sits down with artists Katherine Boxall and Chris Clamp with a live studio audience inside the Jerald Melberg Gallery. Listen as they discuss the profession of art, buying/selling art and some great stories about featured exhibitionist Lee Hall. (Season 2 Finale) Crafted With Cradle is a curated conversation over cocktails with Charlotte's finest, and hosted by Dr. Keith Cradle. Our producers are Chuck Holliday and Jameka Whitten. Our theme music is "I Wanna Have You" by Jason Jet. Remember to subscribe, favorite and review us on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and anywhere you find...
2019-12-0649 min