Shows
Venture EverywhereOperation Military Banking: Tim Hsia with Scott HartleyIn episode 96 of Venture Everywhere, Scott Hartley, co-founder and Managing Partner of Everywhere Ventures, sits down with Tim Hsia, co-founder and CEO of VetraFi, a modern banking platform built specifically for military service members and veterans. Tim, a West Point graduate who served two tours in Iraq, shares his journey from platoon leader to founding VetriFi. They help users build credit, save wisely, and achieve long-term financial health through tools like secured cards and high-yield savings accounts. Tim also discusses how VetriFi’s mission-driven approach is empowering enlisted service members to take control of their financial future.
2025-11-0442 min
TheMilVet PodcastEp 115 - From Green Beret to CEO: Gene Yu on Rescues, Redemption, and ResilienceIn this riveting episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Tim Hsia sits down with Gene Yu — a West Point graduate, former U.S. Army Special Forces officer, author, entrepreneur, and the man behind an audacious real-life hostage rescue mission. Gene shares the extraordinary story that inspired his new book, The Second Shot: A Green Beret’s Last Mission, recounting how a personal connection, combat experience, and sheer determination, converged to rescue family friend Evelyn Chang from Abu Sayyaf terrorists.Gene opens up about his difficult start at West Point, growing up with identity struggles, how a stolen book by a...
2025-05-0638 minTheMilVet PodcastLeadership, Combat, and Tech Innovation: Emery Wager's Transition from the Marines to Confido LegalIn 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...
2025-03-1956 min
AAAIM High ELITim Hsia, Founder and Managing Partner, Context VC, "Venture Investing in Military Veteran Founders"Our guest for today's podcast is Tim Hsia, founder and Managing Partner of Context Ventures, a venture fund that invests in military veteran founders and also in consumer startups. Some of Tim's startup investments prior to Context Ventures include Workflow (acquired by Apple), Morning Brew (acquired by Business Insider), The Hustle (acquired by HubSpot), and Thredup (which IPO'd). Tim is also the CEO & Founder of Media Mobilize (an online ad network, marketing agency, and media company). Tim is a distinguished honor graduate of West Point and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the US Ar...
2024-11-2551 minTheMilVet Podcast93. Building Better Teams through Learning and Development: Steve Gilman’s Lessons from Baseball, Military, & StartupsWelcome 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 a...
2024-11-2052 minTheMilVet Podcast92. Mentorship, Resilience, and Purpose: Lenore Karafa’s Advice for Transitioning VeteransIn this TheMilVet Podcast episode, Lenore Karafa, Senior Client Partner at TMV, shares her inspiring journey from military service to a successful career in finance and consulting. Lenore discusses her early life, military experiences, and the challenges of transitioning to the corporate world. She highlights the impact of mentorship, strategic decisions, and resilience, as well as the importance of nonprofit involvement. With insights on the evolving defense tech landscape, Lenore offers valuable advice for veterans, encouraging them to find their North Star and pursue meaningful career paths. Thanks for listening! Here's ho...
2024-11-1348 minTheMilVet Podcast91. Beyond the Battlefield: A Military Son's Perspective on Vietnam and HealingJoin us on this episode of the MilVet Podcast as host Brendan Aronson sits down with Carl Sciacchitano, a graphic novelist and the son of a Vietnam veteran. Carl opens up about his recently published graphic novel, which delves into his father's experiences in Vietnam and the lasting impact of war on their relationship.Throughout the conversation, Brendan and Carl explore themes of PTSD, storytelling, and the unique bond between a veteran and their child. Carl shares insights from his father’s time in the Air Force and the challenges they fa...
2024-11-0643 minTheMilVet Podcast90. Interview + Career Tips from 25 Years of Veteran Recruiting with Jim LoseIn this TheMilVet podcast episode, COO and recruiting expert Jim Lose breaks down the journey from military to civilian careers. Jim shares insights on handling identity shifts, navigating the job market, and acing interviews. With straightforward advice on self-promotion, confidence, and company research, he offers veterans a clear path to success. This conversation is packed with practical tips on building relationships, crafting standout resumes, and making career moves that count.Ready to start your next mission? Dive into Jim’s expert tips and explore job openings at themilvet.org! ...
2024-11-0449 minTheMilVet Podcast89. People Over Profits: Jim O'Farrell on Building a Meaningful BusinessIn this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, Jim O'Farrell, president and CEO of Advanced Management Strategies Group (AMSG), shares his journey from Navy sailor to the Naval Academy to building a successful government contracting firm. He discusses the value of sales experience, learning from failure, and fostering a strong corporate culture. Jim highlights the rewards and challenges of government contracting and AMSG's people-first core values. Thank you to our Sponsor at NYU Stern School of Business. NYU Stern's MS in Fintech is a one-year, part-time program designed for professionals with an interest in finance or technology who want t...
2024-10-3053 minTheMilVet Podcast88. The Atlantic CEO on Technology, Media, & The Military w/ Nick ThompsonNick Thompson, acclaimed journalist, runner, and CEO of The Atlantic shares his views on the media coverage of veterans, the military, and politics in the current age. He provides his insights on the changing landscape of global politics and technology’s impact on the world. In this episode, we explore Nick’s thoughts on how AI will change the media industry and the military, the history of his grandfather, Paul Nitze, and his commitment to running.In this conversation, Tim Hsia interviews Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, about various topics incl...
2024-10-2342 minTheMilVet PodcastEp. 87 Veterans & Tech: Exploring eMERGE AmericasTyler Johnson and Carlos Romero discuss the upcoming eMERGE Americas event in Miami, a major platform for technology, entrepreneurship, and veteran programs. You’ll hear tips on how to get the most out of attending, from networking to the power of in-person connections. From highlighting the benefits of in-person conferences to exploring networking opportunities and future visions for eMERGE, this episode provides insights on how to make the most of this AWESOME event.Don’t miss out on eMERGE Americas! 🚀 Whether you're a veteran, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, this event is packed with networking and innovation. 🔥 Register now and be...
2024-10-1643 minTheMilVet PodcastEp. 86 Empower & Elevate: VetraFi’s Financial Solutions for VeteransHolden Lindblom, an Army Veteran and co-founder of VetraFi, shares his unique path from military life into the world of entrepreneurship. He highlights the positives and negatives of creating a start-up company and how he’s leveraging his experiences to build VetraFi, a modern banking platform designed specifically for service members and veterans. In this episode, we explore the challenges he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and how VetraFi aims to transform financial wellness for those who serve and their families.🌟 Unlock Your Financial Future with VetraFi! 🌟"Want a banking service that gets you...
2024-10-0952 minTheMilVet PodcastEp. 85 The Importance of Sales & Data in a Civilian Career with Jim DelaneyJim Delaney, a former Naval Officer and founder of Traction AI, shares his career journey and insights on sales, branding, and post military life. Jim emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit and exploring different paths. He highlighties how crucial sales are to driving business success and the importance of branding. Jim also stresses the value of networking, trusting oneself, and fostering collaboration among sales, marketing, and customer success teams. His insights offer practical advice for anyone navigating similar career changes.Thank you to our sponsors at NYU Stern School of Business. NYU Stern's M...
2024-10-0255 minTheMilVet Podcast84. The Transition Toolkit: Strategies for Transition with JC Glick, CEO of COMMIT FoundationIn this episode, JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation and retired Army Ranger, shares his thoughts on the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. Drawing from his own experiences, he discusses the struggle for purpose and identity and the importance of designing a fulfilling life. JC explains how COMMIT empowers veterans and their families through tools, resources, and personalized support. He emphasizes the vital connection between physical and mental health and invites listeners to support their mission through donations and volunteering. Tune in to learn how to navigate the transition and find me...
2024-09-2546 minTheMilVet PodcastEp. 83 Startups and Strategy: Startup Success, Pattern Breakers, & The Military with Mike Maples Jr. and Peter ZiebelmanOn today’s podcast, we talk with Mike Maples Jr. and Peter Ziebelman, Venture Capitalists, Mentors, Leaders, and Instructors of ourselves and most recently, the co-authors of “Pattern Breakers”We explore intriguing analogies and parallels between the military mindset and startup building. Mike and Peter share valuable insights for founders and military veterans looking to pursue a startup career. We have a special offer for listeners. If you purchase Pattern Breakers then you’ll buy one, and get one FREE for a friend with this link: patternbreakers.com/themilvet Thanks for listening! Here...
2024-09-181h 09
Venture EverywhereRebels with a Cause: Carrie Marshall with Tim HsiaEpisode 45 of Venture Everywhere is hosted by Tim Hsia, co-founder and CEO of VetraFi, a fintech company offering financial tools specifically designed for military personnel. He chats with Carrie Marshall, co-founder and CEO of Rebel Space, a company developing autonomous cybersecurity software to protect spacecraft, ground stations, and mission operations. Carrie shares how her experience in cybersecurity and military background shaped her approach to operations in the aerospace sector. Carrie also discusses the challenges of modern space infrastructure, cybersecurity threats, and the critical role automation plays in space systems today.In this episode, you...
2024-09-1717 minTheMilVet Podcast82. Seeds of Success: Everyday Excellence & Empowering Leadership in Special Ops and Venture Capital w/ Richard ClarkeWelcome to today’s episode featuring retired 4-star Special Operations Commander Richard Clarke. With decades of military experience, General Clarke has developed a leadership style that values ideas from all levels and emphasizes leading authentically. In his transition to the boardroom, he now helps venture capital firms tackle complex challenges and build strong leadership within their portfolios. We’ll explore how his military strategies and leadership principles translate into the business world, offering valuable insights on professional growth and effective leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, this conversation promises actionable advice for navigating and succee...
2024-09-1130 minTheMilVet Podcast81. TMV Candidate Experience w/ Matt Bowman, CEO of AutobiographerIn this episode, I sit down with Matt Bowman, United States Military Academy West Point Graduate, U.S. Army Special Forces Officer, the innovative CEO & Co-Founder of Autobiographer. We explore Matt’s unique journey from the military to entrepreneurship and delve into how his company, Autobiographer, is transforming the way people capture and preserve their life stories using AI. Whether you’re looking to preserve your life story or intrigued by the intersection of technology and storytelling, Matt sheds light on the future of personal narratives. Matt is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness, adding...
2024-09-0438 minTheMilVet Podcast80. Battle-Tested Business: Nate Kouhana on Leadership and EntrepreneurshipIn this episode, we sit down with Nate Kouhana , the CEO of Anthem Snacks, A Green Beret, and a decorated Veteran with two bronze star medals and a Purple Heart. Nate's journey from the battlefield to the boardroom is inspiring. Anthem snacks is a company redefining the snack industry with a mission-driven approach. Nate shares his inspiring journey behind Anthem Snacks, a brand built based on a passion for healthy, delicious food and a commitment to supporting the American ranchers. Nate also shares his journey at The Chicago Booth School of Business and the impact higher education had...
2024-08-301h 04TheMilVet Podcast79. The Strategic Edge w/Richard Haass: Diplomacy and Defense & Navigating Domestic and Global ChallengesRichard Haass is the author of “The Bill of Obligations : The Ten Habits of Good Citizens”, a New York Times best-selling book highlighting how we must re-envision citizenship if American democracy is to survive. Richard is an American Diplomat and an expert on international relations. Richard served as the President of the Council on Foreign Relations, a principal advisor to former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, and a special assistant to President George H.W. Bush from 1989 to 1993. Richard was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal for his contributions towards U.S. Policy during Operation Desert Shield and Desert S...
2024-08-141h 04TheMilVet Podcast78. From Marine Corps Recon Platoon Commander to Revolutionizing Health & Wellness W/ CrossFit CEO Don FaulDon Faul is the CEO of CrossFit, a Stanford Graduate School of Business alumnus, and a Marine Corps Veteran. His service included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of Force Reconnaissance. Don’s career trajectory showcases the impact of his military background and business education; from his roles as Platoon Commander to his work within Crossfit, revolutionizing health and wellness across the country as a CEO. Don shares his envisionment for Crossfit and the importance of maintaining your mental & physical health. This deep dive into his journey is one you won't want to miss! Thanks for list...
2024-08-0758 minTheMilVet Podcast77. Exploring Venture Capital & Private Equity W/ Best Selling Author, Sebastian MallabySebastian Mallaby is the author of “The Power Law”, a best-selling book about the history of venture capital. Sebastian is the Paul Volcker Senior Fellow in International Economics at the Council on Foreign Relations. Sebastian shares his story on how his education at The University of Oxford shaped his writing. He also shares his expertise on Venture capital, Hedge Funds, Private Equity & the Public Sector. You will not want to miss this deep dive! Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFoll...
2024-07-3155 minTheMilVet Podcast76. Digital Culture, Tech Censorship, & Building a Personal Brand w/ Taylor LorenzTaylor Lorenz, author of “Extremely Online” and renowned technology and internet culture journalist shares her expertise and firsthand experiences from being blocked by one of the most powerful and well-known billionaires, to the dynamics of digital culture, and the importance of building a strong personal brand. You will not want to miss this deep dive!Thank you for listening! 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 http...
2024-07-1750 minTheMilVet Podcast75. Exploring the Non-Linear Path with Jim SchwabJim Schwab, Founding Partner & Managing Director of CrimStone Partners, discusses his time as an Officer in the US Navy and his career adventures that followed. From consulting for BCG, to deciding he wanted to have his own company and become CEO, his time at the Department of State, then back to entrepreneurship. Jim's career spans many decades and fields and this episode is sure to be filled with great advise and insight. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us...
2024-07-0351 minTheMilVet Podcast74. Taking Risks, Accepting Failure, & Building Your Circle with CEO and Founder of Executive Presence Justin NassiriJustin Nassiri is the CEO and Founder of Executive Presence, offering a fully managed LinkedIn Presence for CEOs and executive Leaders. Justin discusses his time and transition from the military, his podcast "Beyond the Uniform", bootstrapping, the difficulty of startups, and how important it is for transitioning veterans to build their skills and network. 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...
2024-06-1942 minTheMilVet Podcast73. From Army Ranger to Conscious Capitalist: Sunny Vanderbeck's Entrepreneurial JourneySunny Vanderbeck is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Satori Capital, a multi-strategy investment firm founded on the principles of conscious capitalism. By providing real-world insights from its experienced team and long-term funding with no fixed time constraints, Satori is a true partner for its portfolio companies as it challenges them to pursue extraordinary outcomes for all stakeholder groups. Before becoming a Co-founder, Sunny served as a Section Leader of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and led technical teams at Microsoft. Sunny and Brendan discuss:· Sunny's journey from Army Ranger to entrepreneur, including founding and lea...
2024-05-2850 minTheMilVet Podcast72. From Army Ranger to Conscious Capitalist: Sunny Vanderbeck's Entrepreneurial JourneySunny Vanderbeck is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Satori Capital, a multi-strategy investment firm founded on the principles of conscious capitalism. By providing real-world insights from its experienced team and long-term funding with no fixed time constraints, Satori is a true partner for its portfolio companies as it challenges them to pursue extraordinary outcomes for all stakeholder groups. Before becoming a Co-founder, Sunny served as a Section Leader of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and led technical teams at Microsoft. Sunny and Brendan discuss:· Sunny's journey from Army Ranger to entrepreneur, including founding and lea...
2024-05-2451 minTheMilVet Podcast72. From My Foxhole: Startup Lessons Learned, Interview Tips, and MBA Application TimelineBrendan Aronson, CEO and Co-Founder of The Military Veteran, transitioned out of the Navy six years ago. On this episode of the podcast, Brendan talks about lessons learned from startups, interview tips, and MBA application timelines.We are sharing an exclusive discount code to the Career Conference in Austin for our podcast listeners. Use code TMVPOD50 for 50% off your ticket! 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...
2024-04-1014 minTheMilVet Podcast71. From My Foxhole: Key Takeaways From My TransitionBrendan Aronson, CEO and Co-Founder of The Military Veteran, transitioned out of the Navy six years ago. On this episode of the podcast, Brendan reflects and shares some of his key takeaways from his transition. We are sharing an exclusive discount code to the Career Conference in Austin for our podcast listeners. Use code TMVPOD50 for 50% off your ticket! 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...
2024-04-0317 minTheMilVet Podcast70. Exploring the world of Venture Capital with Founder of Harpoon Ventures, Larsen JensenLarsen Jensen is the founder of Harpoon Ventures, an early stage venture capital firm with deep commitment to supporting the next generation of groundbreaking technology. Prior to becoming a Venture Capitalist, Larsen served as a Navy SEAL for six years and was an Olympic medalist for swimming in 2004 and 2008. Larsen and Brendan discuss:His path from being an Olympic medalist to Navy SEAL and now a Founder of a Venture Capital FirmBuilding Mental TenacityHow a Venture Capital Fund WorksThe Importance of Differentiation Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue th...
2024-03-2747 minTheMilVet Podcast69. Exploring the Benefits of Franchising with TRX Chairman and Founder, Randy HetrickRandy Hetrick is the creator of the Suspension Trainer and is the founder of TRX, one of the world’s leading fitness training brands. Over more than three decades, Randy built a record of unique accomplishments including: collegiate athlete; 14-year Navy SEAL Officer; bootstrap entrepreneur; inventor with more than 30 patents; and growth company CEO. Randy is also the Founder and CEO of OutFit, a new mobile training franchise that leverages a sophisticated technology platform to coordinate a network of tricked-out sprinter vans to deliver expertly coached outdoor group fitness and private training to parks, schools, and cul-de-sacs in neighborhoods ac...
2024-03-2058 minTheMilVet Podcast68. MVS24 Fireside Leadership Chat with former Co-CEO of Black Rifle Coffee and Founder of ID.me, Tom Davin and Blake Hall*This episode is a recording of our Fireside Chat with Tom Davin and Blake Hall at The MilVet Startups Conference (MVS 24) in San Francisco. To experience conversations like this firsthand, you can register for our events at www.themilvet.org/eventsTom Davin has over 30 years of executive leadership experience as a board member of mission-focused and category defining companies to include Taco Bell, Oakley, Panda Express, 5.11 Tactical, and most recently, Black Rifle Coffee. Prior to transitioning to the business, Tom served in the Marine Corps as an Infantry Officer for six years. Blake Hall...
2024-03-1442 minTheMilVet Podcast67. Q&A on The Military Veteran Career Conference with TMV Skillbridge Intern, Sally LeeSally Lee is a transitioning Army Officer and a Skillbridge intern for TMV. On this episode of the podcast, Sally joins Brendan in a Q&A session about the upcoming career conference in Austin, TX to include: The Intent of the Career ConferenceThe Differences Between the Events hosted by TMVThe Importance of Networking with Fellow Transitioning VeteransWhat to Expect at This Year's ConferenceTickets for The Military Veteran Career Conference are now available at https://www.themilvet.org/events and you can use discount code TMVPOD for 25% off your ticket.If you have an...
2024-03-0621 minTheMilVet Podcast66. Differentiating Product, Program and Project Management with CrossFit Product Manager, Kathy BorkoskiKathy Borkoski is a military veteran and serves a Product Manager at CrossFit. At CrossFit, Kathy focuses on member generation, conversion and retention to increase gym profitability.Prior to CrossFit, Kathy served in the Navy specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal. After leaving the Military, Kathy served in numerous project, program, and product management roles at various companies to include Facebook and Twill.Kathy joins Brendan to discuss:Transitioning out of the Military and the Present Day Job Market Challenges in Scaling a BusinessDifference between Product, Program, and Project ManagementBalancing the Reserves and Civilian CareerThe P...
2024-02-2849 minTheMilVet Podcast65. Navigating Your Unique Post-Military Path with Intuit Product Counsel, Olaseni BelloOlaseni Bello is a military veteran and serves an Associate General Counsel for product at Intuit. Olaseni partners closely with product, engineering, business development, marketing, operations, and compliance managers on matters ranging from generative AI product features to data privacy to regulatory and cross-border issues. Prior to Intuit, Olaseni served in the Army as a Judge Advocate General. After leaving the Military, Olaseni served in numerous legal advisor and senior executive roles in both public and private sectors to include Meta, Wells Fargo, and Morgan Stanley.Olaseni joins Brendan to discuss:The path to be...
2024-02-2136 minTheMilVet Podcast64. Creating Opportunities through Divergent Pathways with COO of Valley Services Electronics, Chris HomewoodChris Homewood is a military veteran and serves as the Chief Operations Officer and of Valley Services Electronics, a leading contract manufacturing company using cutting-edge PCBA solutions and top-quality systems to serve a wide range of technology companies, worldwide.Prior to becoming a COO of VSE, Chris served in the Marine Corps as an Artillery Officer. After leaving the Military, Chris served in numerous leadership and executive roles in retail companies to include Target, Ross, and TriMark.Chris joins Brendan to discuss:Evaluating opportunities from linear to divergent and parallel pathwaysExperience working in Retail H...
2024-02-1449 minTheMilVet Podcast63. How to Prepare for Transitioning Through Skillbridge and Optimism with CEO of Tilson Infrastructure, Joshua BroderJoshua Broder is a military veteran and serves as the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Tilson Infrastructure, a national-leader in utility pole and tower development, and long haul campus fiber for lease-back to telecom carriers and others.Prior to becoming a CEO, Josh served as an Army Signal Corps Officer on missions in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for service in Afghanistan designing, building, and operating the communications network for US forces.Follow Josh on LinkedIn and subscribe to his newsletter to access more...
2024-02-0749 minTheMilVet Podcast62. MilVet Startups Conference on Mission Oriented Podcast*This episode is a recording of an interview of Brendan on the Mission Oriented Podcast. Brendan talks about the upcoming MilVet Startups Conference and what to expect. To sign up, go to www.milvetstartups.com and use code TMVPodcast30 for 30% off your ticket. Are you interested in a SkillBridge opportunity with The Mil Vet? Reach out to sally@themilvet.org to learn more. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @t...
2024-01-3108 minTheMilVet Podcast61. TMV3 Rewind: Veterans in Tech Panel with Steve Chiou, Kyle Eberly, Mashon Wilson, and Yosef Adiputra*This episode is a recording of our Vets in Tech Panel at The Military Veteran Career Conference (TMV3) in San Francisco. To experience conversations like this firsthand, you can register for our events at www.themilvet.org/eventsThis panel, moderated by Brendan, consists of Steve Chiou (PM at Box), Kyle Eberly (PM at Google), Mashon Wilson (Strategy Lead at Google), and Yosef Adiputra (PM at Snap).In this chat, the panelists discussTheir paths to breaking into tech careersThe significant differences between big tech companiesHow compensation works in the tech worldWhat a day...
2024-01-2458 minTheMilVet Podcast60. TMV3 Fireside Chat: Reflections on Leadership and Innovation with Alpine Investors Founder and Managing Partner, Graham Weaver*This episode is a recording of our Fireside Chat with Graham Weaver at The Military Veteran Career Conference (TMV3) in San Francisco. To experience conversations like this firsthand, you can register for our events at www.themilvet.org/eventsGraham Weaver is the founder and managing partner of Alpine Investors, a people-driven private equity firm that invests in software and services businesses. With over 20 years of experience in private equity, Graham founded Alpine based on the belief that exceptional people create exceptional businesses, a People First philosophy that guides the firm’s choices today. When he’s not...
2024-01-1738 minTheMilVet Podcast59. Combining Experience and a Side Hustle into a New Career with the Founder of Exit Five, Dave GerhardtDave Gerhardt is the founder and CEO of Exit Five (exitfive.com), a media company focused on helping B2B marketers build successful careers through community and content. Before Exit Five, Dave spent over a decade as a marketer working his way up to Chief Brand Officer at Drift and Chief Marketing Officer at Privy.Follow Dave on LinkedIn and subscribe to his newsletter to access more of his amazing content. Dave joins Brendan and Tim to discuss:How he came to build a career in marketingWhy side hustles can completely change y...
2024-01-1056 minTheMilVet Podcast58. Compensation Negotiation Tactics for the Interview Process with Negotiations Expert, Gerta MalajGerta Malaj is a negotiation expert with a professional career that spans big tech (LinkedIn, IBM) to global biotech (Sanofi), startups (3x founder & advisor), and venture capital. Gerta is an angel investor and an LP of a VC Fund. She is also a veteran spouse and holds a Master's in Engineering from MIT. Gerta has free negotiation downloads on her website at yournegotiations.com. She is also active on LinkedIn and Twitter (@gerta_ma). Gerta joins Brendan to discuss:How a shift in thinking about negotiation can help you secure more compensationCommon pitfalls when n...
2024-01-031h 00TheMilVet Podcast57. Understanding and Navigating Your Veteran Benefits with Former VA Under Secretary of Benefits, Paul LawrencePaul Lawrence is an Army veteran and former Under Secretary of Veteran Benefits at the VA. Paul's professional career spans multiple levels of leadership at consulting firms, but since 2021 he has focused on being a veteran advocate and author. Paul is active on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter), where he shares valuable resources and spotlights veterans and organizations who are contributing to the veteran community. Paul has published two books following his service as Under Secretary. His most recent work, Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve, is an incredible resource for all veterans looking to...
2023-12-2057 minTheMilVet Podcast56. How a College Basketball Player Became an Ed Tech Founder with the Co-Founder & COO of Learn to Win, Sasha SeymoreSasha Seymore is a co-founder and the COO of Learn to Win, an education technology company based in Redwood City, California, that improves training and onboarding for commercial enterprises, the Department of Defense, and athletic teams and programs. Sasha is also a reserve intelligence officer for the US Navy serving with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), helping the U.S. military make faster use of emerging commercial technologies. Prior to Learn to Win, Sasha worked as a consultant for McKinsey & Company and played professional basketball in Europe. Sasha received an MBA from Stanford as a Knight-Hennessey scholar, a...
2023-12-1351 minTheMilVet Podcast55. Revolutionizing the Fitness Industry with Navy Veteran and Founder/CEO of Crossrope, David HuntDavid Hunt is a former Naval Aviator and the Founder and CEO of Crossrope. Crossrope is a company on a mission to inspire millions of people to experience a different way to get fit through jump rope fitness. Founded in 2012, Crossrope has grown into a leading fitness brand today with many product offerings and over 20,000 positive reviews from customers. David joins Brendan and Tim to discuss:How David got the idea for Crossrope and began his entrepreneurial journeyHow making jump ropes grew into tech and media at CrossropeThe importance of capitalizing on opp...
2023-12-0654 minTheMilVet Podcast54. Investing in National Security with the Founder and General Partner of Bravo Victor Venture Capital, Joe Musselman Joe Musselman is a Navy Veteran, Founder of The Honor Foundation, and Founder & General Partner at Bravo Victor Venture Capital. The Honor Foundation is a career transition program for U.S. Special Operations Forces that effectively translates their elite military service to the private sector and helps create the next generation of corporate and community leaders. Bravo Victor Venture Capital's mission is to find, fund, and follow-on with mission-first founders so the United States and our allies win. It does so by investing in companies to reaffirm America's position as the world's leader in software, har...
2023-11-291h 10TheMilVet Podcast53. Buying ESG Businesses with Former USMC Pilot and CEO of Clearyst, Chris RobinsonChris Robinson is a former Marine Corps pilot and Goldman Sachs M&A banker. Chris is now the founder and CEO of Clearyst, a sustainability value platform consisting of several product lines developed by subsidiary companies.Chris joins Brendan to discuss:His experience in an Executive MBA programWays in which transitioning veterans can "crack the code" of the business worldHis thoughts on skill development and key pillars of professional successHow Clearyst leverages a new way of thinking with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing Thanks for listening! Here's how you can...
2023-11-221h 01TheMilVet Podcast52. Finding Peace in a Personal Forever War with the Author of Bipolar General, Major General (Retired) Gregg MartinMajor General Gregg Martin served in the Army for 36 years and now works as a mental health advocate. Known also as the Bipolar General, MG Martin was medically retired due to his condition. He recently authored a book titled Bipolar General: My Forever War with Mental Illness. In this episode, MG Martin joins Brendan to discuss How he found out he had bipolar disorderHis journey to living with and managing the illnessHis views on mental health treatment in the military and the VAYou can learn more about about Major General Martin at generalgreggmartin.com an...
2023-11-1557 minTheMilVet Podcast51. How to Combine Military Experience with Business Skills to Succeed in the Corporate World with the CEO of Readyly, Kris SandorKris Sandor is a former Navy Submarine Officer, McKinsey Associate, and CEO of of Citi Bike (acquired by Lyft). Kris is now the co-founder and CEO of Readyly, a company that deploys Generative AI and automation to accelerate customer support for mid-market companies. Kris joins Brendan to discuss:The value of working for a large firm and how that is crucial to succeeding in the startup worldWhy search funds are such a risky undertakingA primer on tech jobs and culture, and what project management really isWhat gaps between the military and business world that v...
2023-11-0855 minTheMilVet Podcast50. Leveraging Military Experience to Drive the Future of Tech with the President of Public Sector at SandboxAQ, Jen SovadaJen Sovada is a retired Air Force officer and the President of Public Sector at SandboxAQ. SandboxAQ is an enterprise SaaS company combining AI + Quantum tech to solve hard problems impacting society. Their solutions include post-RSA cybersecurity modules that migrate enterprises to higher levels of security, quantum sensing software and hardware and the ability to simulate and optimize data.Luke joins Brendan to discuss:Jen's unique perspective on transition timelineWhy focusing on your passions leads to career satisfactionHow government is changing to benefit small business innovationWhy the dual-use industry can be so attractive...
2023-11-0142 minTheMilVet Podcast49. Finding Your Place as a Startup Founder with the CEO of Perfect Venue, Luke HutchisonLuke Hutchison is a former Army officer and the Founder & CEO of Perfect Venue. Perfect Venue helps restaurants easily organize their events in one place to save time, increase sales, and streamline operations with the #1 event management software for independent restaurants & hospitality groups. The company has been featured in Tech Crunch, Fortune, and others. Luke joins Brendan to discuss:His journey of simultaneously transitioning out of the military and founding a startupWhat founders should seek to do before raising external fundingHow to maximize your chances of finding the right investors for your businessThe value of w...
2023-10-2559 minTheMilVet Podcast48. From Big Tech Exec to Bestselling Author with former Combat Jet Pilot, Loree DraudeLoree Draude was one of the first women to fly combat jets in the U.S. Navy. She deployed twice to the Persian Gulf and accumulated over 300 carrier landings. After completing her naval service, Loree earned her MBA at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She spent 20 years in Silicon Valley, leading teams at startups and tech companies, including Google and Facebook. Loree is now an executive coach, leadership trainer and motivational speaker. Loree is also the author of the bestselling book She's Just Another Navy Pilot.In this episode, Loree joins Brendan to discuss
2023-10-1849 minTheMilVet Podcast47. Science of Networking and Increasing Your Luck's Surface Area with Brendan Aronson and Brock Briggs on the Scuttlebutt PodcastThis episode is a cross-post from Brendan's recent appearance on The Scuttlebutt Podcast.In this episode, Brock Briggs hosts Brendan Aronson on the Scuttlebutt Podcast. Brendan is a former Marine Corps infantry officer, co-founder and CEO of The Military Veteran, and associate at Context Ventures. In this conversation, Brendan talks about building a company exclusively aimed at transitioning vets, the different business models TMV is pursuing, the pros and cons of B2B and B2C sales, and why bootstrapping is right for most entrepreneurs. Brock and Brendan also exp...
2023-10-111h 14TheMilVet Podcast46. Redefining Your Transition Through Education with the Director of Military Transition at William & Mary, JD DueJonathan (JD) Due is a retired Army Armor Officer and the Executive Director of the Center for Military Transition at William & Mary. The Center for Military Transition is a one-of-a-kind program with a mission to be the national leader in helping veterans transition into and succeed in high-level civilian management positions. JD joins Brendan to discuss:The unique challenges that retiring service members faceHow networking and introspection led him to a fulfilling civilian careerEducation resources for veterans and transitioning service membersThe unique offerings that the Center of Military Transition has to help veterans thrive in education a...
2023-10-0447 minTheMilVet Podcast45. Bridging the Gap Between Investors and Real Estate with Gray Line Investments Partner, Frank ScappaticciFrank Scappaticci is Co-Owner and Partner at Gray Line Investments. After graduating from West Point and serving as a Field Artillery Officer in the Army, Frank transitioned into various roles in banking and consulting. In 2020, partially driven by the enjoyment of buying his own home, Frank began investing into real estate. Eventually, Frank co-founded Gray Line Investments, a real estate investment firm that specializes in syndicating commercial real estate and storage units. Frank joins Brendan to discuss:His journey from the Army to consulting, banking, and finally real estateThe similarities and differences between various asset classesHow s...
2023-09-2752 minTheMilVet Podcast44. Why Veterans Make Good Consultants with L.E.K. Senior Manager, Wes GoingWes Going is a Senior Engagement Manager at L.E.K. Consulting. After serving six years in the US Navy, Wes attended NYU Stern School of Business. Following business school, Wes joined L.E.K. and has built a successful career there. Wes joins Brendan to discuss:How to prep for consulting interviewsWhat it's like to be a strategy consultantWhy and how to examine your fit within a consulting firmThe skills he has gained and the impact he's had while working as a consultant Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us t...
2023-09-2051 minTheMilVet Podcast43. From Enlisted to Executive Director of the Pat Tillman Veteran Center with Author Shawn BanzhafShawn Banzhaf is a published author, a retired Army Sergeant First Class, a former police officer and pastor, and the Executive Director of the Arizona State University Pat Tillman Veteran Center. To say that Shawn has a wealth of wisdom is an understatement. Shawn joins Brendan to discuss:His journey with trauma and how it led to his bookHigher education resources for veteransHow higher education can ignite new passions after serviceTips on how to navigate college as a veteranCheck out Shawn's book, The Five Ls: A Practical Guide for Helping Loved Ones Heal After T...
2023-09-1353 minTheMilVet Podcast42. Finding Your Fit in Consulting with Veterans Christian Grant and Tom Marchant of DeloitteChristian Grant and Tom Marchant have over 25 years of combined consulting experience and over 20 years of military experience in the Army and Marine Corps. Both guests have built exceptional careers at Deloitte. Christian currently works as a Principal focused on utilities and renewable energy and Tom as a Senior Manager in Mergers and Acquisitions. Christian and Tom join Brendan to discuss:What attracted them to consulting, and what has kept them at DeloitteThe myriad of career options available at DeloitteWhy veterans are successful consultantsThe number of programs Deloitte has to help you get hired ...
2023-09-061h 04TheMilVet Podcast41. Guiding the Transformation of Media with Marine Veteran and Vice Chairman of Penske Media, Gerry ByrneGerry Byrne is an entrepreneur and communications executive who has extensive experience in launching and managing global media enterprises across sectors that include advertising, marketing, media, entertainment, fashion, and retail. He is the Vice Chairman and Board Member of the Penske Media Corporation. A Marine officer and a Vietnam veteran, Gerry is also committed to giving back to the community. He is the CEO/Co-Founder of Warriors Rise (2022), a VSO focused on Veterans employment.Gerry joins Brendan to discuss:What it was like to find a career as a veteran following VietnamHow media has changed in...
2023-08-3055 minTheMilVet Podcast40. Startup Ops and Owning Real Estate with Navy Veteran and Portfolio Operations Director at Kasa, JD ModrakJD Modrak is the Director of Portfolio Operations East at Kasa. After earning his MBA from Chicago Booth, JD began his career working in Strategy at United Airlines. JD then pivoted into the startup world to find the intersection of his passions for leading small teams and real estate.JD joins Brendan to discuss:His journey to the startup world, and the pros/cons of working in startupsHow his grad school side hustle transformed into his passion Why owning profit and loss is a superpowerHis recommendations on framing life to maximize happiness T...
2023-08-231h 00TheMilVet Podcast39. From My Foxhole #2: Should I Stay In or Get Out?Welcome to the newest TMV Pod format!In this episode, Brendan, Alexis, and Blake come to you live from San Francisco to discuss a question nearly every veteran has to answer - Should I stay in or get out? All bases are covered in this episode as we have one person on their way to military retirement, one veteran, and one who transitioned from active duty to the reserve component.The Mil Vet team covers:How they framed their decision and at what point(s) they considered itThe costs and benefits of staying in a...
2023-08-1649 minTheMilVet Podcast38. Scaling a High Tech Defense Startup with Marine Force Recon Veteran and Co-Founder of Reveal, Garrett SmithGarrett Smith is the Founder and CEO of Reveal, a defense tech software company that pairs with ISR platforms to create 2D/3D maps and performs analytics on aerial data, deployed on mobile devices at the edge. Garrett is a former active duty Force Recon Marine and currently serves in the Marine Corps Reserve. Garrett is an alum of BYU and Stanford.Garrett joins TMV Co-founder Tim Hsia to discuss:The benefits of continuing service in the ReservesThe value of living what Garrett calls a "varied life" of experiencesWhat it's like to launch and o...
2023-08-091h 00TheMilVet Podcast37. A New School Business in an Old School Industry with Navy Vet and Co-Founder/COO of Boom & Bucket, Aaron KlineAaron Kline is the Co-founder and COO of Boom & Bucket, a heavy equipment marketplace business based in Austin, TX. Aaron is a former Naval Aviator and Stanford GSB alum. Boom & Bucket was founded in 2020 and provides advertising, financial transfer, and pricing for buyers and sellers of heavy equipment. Aaron joins TMV Co-founder Tim Hsia to discuss:Transition out of the militaryThoughts on business school as a transition strategyThe challenges of keeping up with technology as a startup founderWhat it's like to operate in the heavy equipment industryYou can find more about B...
2023-08-0250 minTheMilVet Podcast36. Cutting Edge Education Opportunities at NYU Stern with Assistant Dean, Niha SinghalNiha Singhal is the Assistant Dean, Global Executive Degree Programs at the NYU's Stern School of Business. Niha has an MBA from Harvard and has worked in talent acquisition and professional development for nearly 20 years. Niha has served as NYU Stern's Assistant Dean since 2011. Neha joins Brendan to discuss Traditional and brand-new educational opportunities at NYU SternThe differences and similarities between full-time and executive MBA programsHow veterans can benefit from business educationThoughts on admissions and career opportunities Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us...
2023-07-2653 minTheMilVet Podcast35. Semiconductor Chip Wars with Army Veteran and Chairman at Tokyo Electron US, Larry SmithLarry Smith is an Army veteran who currently serves as the Chairman of the Board at Tokyo Electron. Tokyo Electron is one of the world's largest suppliers of chipmaking equipment and is at the center of international strategic initiatives surrounding the industry. Larry joins Brendan to discuss How he ended up in his first post-military job (which he originally had no interest in)What skills he leveraged to become a business leader His passion for helping reduce veteran homelessnessCareer opportunities for veterans in the semiconductor industryLarry will also be joining us in September 2023 as the...
2023-07-1956 minTheMilVet Podcast34. From my Foxhole #1: Go to Work or Go to School?Welcome to the newest TMV Pod format!The "From my Foxhole" series is designed to discuss some of the most common decisions that transitioning servicemembers must consider as they make the leap to the civilian workplace. You'll get to hear the perspectives of other veterans as they discuss how they approached the topic, why they made a certain decision, and the pros and cons associated with it.In this episode, Brendan sits down with Alexis and Blake, two TMV interns, to discuss a question nearly every transitioning servicemember considers - Should I go straight to...
2023-07-1250 minTheMilVet Podcast33. Working in Tech Startups with Navy Reserve Officer and Operations & Growth Strategy Lead at Peregrine, Morgan HitzigMorgan Hitzig is a Navy Reserves Officer and the Operations & Growth Strategy Lead at Peregrine, a tech startup whose mission is to create technology to help mission-critical government institutions make data-driven decisions, power real-time operations, and strengthen community relationships. Morgan is an alum of Johns Hopkins University. Morgan joins Brendan to discuss life in the startup space, the pros and cons of dual-use companies, and doing work that you're passionate about. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us...
2023-07-051h 00TheMilVet Podcast32. The Business of Education with Air Force Veteran and COO of Arizona State University, Dr. Chris HowardDr. Chris Howard is a retired Air Force Pilot and Intelligence Officer, and a graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Harvard Business School, and a Rhodes Scholar. Dr. Howard now serves as the COO of Arizona State University after making the jump from the corporate world to education nearly twenty years ago. Dr. Howard joins Brendan to discuss transition, navigating post-military careers, and what the business of education is like. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us...
2023-06-281h 01TheMilVet Podcast31. Revolutionizing How People Find Healthcare with C-17 Pilot and Founder/CEO of Sofia Health, Riley ReesRiley Rees is a retired Air Force C-17 pilot, MIT Sloan graduate, and Founder & CEO of Sofia Health. Sofia Health is an online marketplace connecting consumers to health and wellness practitioners, and its mission is to make it easier for people to connect with health and wellness professionals. Riley joins Brendan to discuss how cool it is to fly C-17s, how injuries and ailments from her time in service led her to become a startup founder, and her recommendations for living a healthy life. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find u...
2023-06-2151 minTheMilVet Podcast30. Building a Mental Wellness Company with Marine Vet and Co-Founder/CEO of Forte, Vineet RajanMarine Corps Veteran Vineet Rajan is a Stanford GSB Alum and Co-Founder & CEO of Forte - a mental wellness employee platform that provides Content and Connections so employees can uniquely and meaningfully contribute at work, home, and in their community.Vineet joins Brendan to discuss the period of industry discovery he went through during business school, what it was like to execute a search fund during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how and why he decided to start a mental wellness company. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the c...
2023-06-1459 minTheMilVet Podcast29. Law School and Community Involvement with Marine Corps Vet and Real Estate Lawyer, Nate JesterMarine Corps Veteran Nate Jester is a Real Estate Lawyer in Atlanta, GA and is an alum of USNA and Harvard Law School. Nate joins Brendan to discuss all stages of pursuing law, from applying to law school, to what life is like at law school, and opportunities afterward. Nate also provides some great insight into how intimidating the transition out of the military can be, and the value of volunteering in your community. Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_ar...
2023-06-0759 minTheMilVet PodcastFYSA. Service to School VetLink SummitService to School is hosting its first VetLink Summit on June 23rd and 24th at the University of Chicago!You will meet current students, alumni, and representatives from more than 20 colleges and universities at the event.To register, visit https://www.service2school.org/vetlink-summit or register through their linktree on Instagram @service2school_________________On day one, you will learn how veterans have succeeded in applying to VetLink schools, made an impact on campus, and used the degree to launch their careers.On day two, you will hear from...
2023-06-0207 minTheMilVet Podcast28. Brendan Aronson and Alec Emmert Talk All Things Business on Service to School StoriesRecently, Brendan was invited as a guest on the Service to School Stories Podcast. Service to School is an outstanding non-profit and an organization that we are proud to call a friend of The Mil Vet.In this episode, Brendan discusses his experience as an entrepreneur, his thoughts on transitioning from the military to the business sector and deciding whether an MBA is right for you, the power of networking, and more!Be sure to listen in to hear Brendan and Alec Emmert discuss the commonalities and differences between common post-MBA career paths and excellent...
2023-05-3150 minTheMilVet Podcast27. Careers in Tech and MBA Admissions Resources with Army Vet and Google Strategy Lead, MaShon WilsonArmy Veteran MaShon Wilson is a Strategy and Business Operations Lead at Google, specializing in Go-to-Market, Ads Policy, and Growth Strategies. MaShon graduated with an M.B.A. from Duke University and B.S. from U.S. Military Academy at WestPoint.MaShon joins us this week to discuss his own transitions, first from the military to an MBA program and consulting, and then from consulting to tech. MaShon provides excellent insight into what it's like to "make the jump" into the tech world, and how he built the skills necessary to become a Strategy Lead at Google.
2023-05-2450 minTheMilVet Podcast26. Fireside Chat with Marine Veteran and CEO of Carta, Henry Ward and Quil Lawrence of NPRHenry Ward sits down with Quil Lawrence in front of a live crowd at The Mil Vet Startup Conference to discuss military service, Henry's path to tech and entrepreneurship, and the future of work and compensation, among other topics.If you enjoy this episode, join us at The Military Veteran Career Conferences or the Mil Vet Startup Conference to hear more successful veteran speakers and connect with other vets like you. Henry Ward is the CEO and co-founder of Carta. The company is trusted by more than 30,000 companies, over 5,000 investment funds, and half a million e...
2023-05-1753 minTheMilVet Podcast25. Finding a Mission in Business with Former Navy SEAL and ZeroEyes Co-Founder, Rob HubertyRob Huberty is a Navy SEA veteran, Wharton Alum, and co-founder of ZeroEyes. ZeroEyes is an AI weapons detection platform that identifies visible guns and provides schools, commercial buildings, and government sites with the best possible reaction time to threats. Rob joins Brendan to discuss his career as a Navy SEAL, the impact that gun violence has had on his life, and how he found his new mission after leaving the SEALs. Rob also provides exceptional commentary on how he views success and fulfillment in a career. Thanks for listening! Here's how you ca...
2023-05-101h 02TheMilVet Podcast24. Private Equity and Nonprofits with Army Vet and Founder of Children of Fallen Patriots, David KimDavid Kim is a former Army officer and West Point and Harvard Business School alum. Since leaving the Army, David has spent nearly 20 years in the Private Equity industry. He is currently the Co-head of Investor Relations at Apax Partners. In 2002, David and his wife founded Children of Fallen Patriots (https://www.fallenpatriots.org), a non-profit that seeks to provide college scholarships to every American child who has lost a parent in the line of duty. David joins Brendan to discuss his transition out of the military, the private equity industry and raising capital, and th...
2023-05-0347 min