TheMilVet Podcast

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Raj Shah, Air National Guard F-16 pilot and Managing Partner at Shield Capital.Raj shares his non-linear journey from growing up as the son of Indian immigrants in Georgia, to serving as a citizen-soldier in the Air National Guard, to working at McKinsey, founding multiple cybersecurity companies, and now investing in early-stage startups shaping the future of warfare and national security.Throughout the conversation, Raj offers a candid look at what it really takes to succeed as a founder and investor — grit, resilience, team-first leadership, and a deep understanding of customer pain points — and why veterans are uniquely positioned to thrive in high-risk, high-impact environments.Listeners will gain insight into:Why military leadership, grit, and mission-focus translate powerfully into startups, venture capital, and techRaj’s path from McKinsey to founding venture-backed cybersecurity companies — and the lessons learned from early failures and pivotsHow Silicon Valley views risk, failure, and second chances — and why learning fast matters more than perfectionWhat venture capitalists actually look for when evaluating founders, teams, markets, and technologyWhy having the right co-founder and team matter more than the initial ideaHow veterans can break into tech, startups, and VC through networking, warm introductions, and mentorshipVeteran-focused organizations and programs that help bridge the military-to-tech transitionWhy defense tech is booming right now — and how private-sector innovation is reshaping modern warfareRaj also shares practical advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, operating roles, or investing — including how to choose the right role, the right team, and the right mission-driven work that aligns with long-term purpose.If you’re a veteran exploring career transitions, entrepreneurship, defense technology, venture capital, or simply looking to understand how military experience can unlock opportunities in high-growth industries, this episode delivers actionable insights and hard-earned wisdom from someone who has successfully navigated all of them.🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.#Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #DefenseTech #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #CyberSecurity #StartupFounders #VetSuccess #Innovation #NationalSecurity #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #Networking #Resilience #VeteranEntrepreneurs Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with fellow Marine Patrick D. Nugent — former Regimental Commander at The Citadel, former Marine Corps infantry officer, Speaker, Adaptive Athlete, and Veteran Advocate — to share one of the most powerful and non-linear transition stories you’ll hear.Patrick walks through his journey from growing up in Cleveland with a deep family legacy of service, to choosing The Citadel, commissioning into the Marine Corps infantry, and preparing for a long-term military career. That path was abruptly changed by a catastrophic training accident that left him with life-altering injuries, forced medical retirement, and an uncertain future.What followed is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and betting on yourself.Patrick shares how he navigated recovery at Walter Reed, confronted the reality of leaving the Marine Corps, and redefined his mission — ultimately earning admission to The Wharton School for his MBA and Harvard Kennedy School for his MPA. He then transitioned into management consulting at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he applied military leadership, grit, and team-first mindset in one of the most demanding professional environments.Throughout the conversation, Patrick offers candid insight into what consulting actually looks like day-to-day, how veterans add unique value in high-pressure business roles, and why embracing discomfort and learning velocity matters more than having a “perfect” resume.Listeners will gain insight into:Patrick’s path from The Citadel and Marine Corps infantry to Wharton, Harvard, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG)How a life-altering injury forced an unexpected but transformative career pivotWhat management consulting really looks like — including private equity diligence and federal workWhy veterans excel in consulting through resilience, composure, and team leadershipHow to avoid “self-selecting out” of elite opportunities and let others tell you noThe power of veteran and non-veteran mentorship during career transitionsUsing fitness, discipline, and structure to sustain performance after traumaPatrick also shares hard-earned advice for transitioning veterans: aim higher than you think possible, lean on the veteran network, give back early, and never underestimate how transferable military leadership truly is.If you’re a veteran navigating transition, considering consulting, business school, public service, or simply looking for proof that reinvention is possible after setbacks — this episode delivers inspiration, honesty, and actionable guidance from someone who has lived it.🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.#Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #MarineCorps #ManagementConsulting #BCG #MBA #Wharton #Harvard #InvictusGames #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #VeteranSuccess #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with fellow Marine Sean Bielat — former Marine Corps officer, McKinsey consultant, political candidate, private equity executive, and Managing Partner at Oscar Mike Venture Partners — to share one of the most non-linear and inspiring transition stories you’ll hear.Sean walks through his journey from serving as a Marine Corps officer to consulting at McKinsey, running defense robotics at iRobot, launching his own company Endeavor Robotics, and investing in international defense technology in Europe. He discusses how he navigated the complexities of corporate America, private equity, and international markets, all while keeping mission and purpose at the forefront.Throughout the conversation, Sean offers candid insight into the unique challenges veterans face when transitioning into business, entrepreneurship, and investing — and how the leadership lessons from the military can be leveraged to build teams, scale companies, and drive impact.Listeners will gain insight into:Sean’s path from Marine Corps officer to McKinsey, iRobot, and private equityHow to carve out and run a successful business after leaving a large corporationBuilding high-performing teams, company culture, and trust as a CEOLessons in investing, entrepreneurship, and strategic advising in U.S. and European defense marketsNavigating complex international markets with limited capital and local knowledgeThe importance of mission, purpose, and unity in professional and global contextsHow veterans can leverage operational and leadership experience to succeed in tech, venture, and private equitySean also shares advice for transitioning veterans and professionals: seek continuous education, take operational roles early, embrace non-linear career paths, and focus on where you want to feel fulfilled rather than a rigid job title.If you’re a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, private equity, defense tech, or seeking purpose-driven work after service — this episode delivers inspiration, practical guidance, and a masterclass in leveraging military leadership to make an impact.🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.#Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #MarineCorps #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #DefenseTech #VentureCapital #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Clint Alanis — retired Marine Corps officer, special operations veteran, and Co-Founder and COO of Smack Technologies Inc — to explore one of the most authentic and non-linear veteran transition journeys you’ll hear.Clint shares his experience moving from a high-stakes military career into the world of entrepreneurship and defense technology, reflecting on the challenges of leaving active duty, finding purpose outside the service, and leveraging his operational experience to solve complex problems in the civilian sector.Throughout the conversation, Clint discusses:His decision to retire for family reasons and navigating life after leaving active dutyThe realities of transitioning from the military into the business and startup worldHow he leveraged his network, mentorship, and programs like the Honor Foundation to understand the commercial landscapeFounding Smack Technologies and creating AI/ML solutions that give commanders decision dominance in the modern kill chainThe importance of trust, relationships, and understanding your transferable skills in businessInsights on what it takes to succeed in defense tech, private equity, and entrepreneurship without a traditional MBAListeners will gain actionable guidance on:Making strategic, family-oriented decisions during career transitionsUnderstanding how military leadership skills translate into business and tech entrepreneurshipNavigating the startup world, fundraising, and building high-performing teamsIdentifying problems worth solving and taking calculated risks in new industriesHow veterans can carve out meaningful post-service careers while maintaining purpose and impactClint also shares candid advice for veterans exploring entrepreneurship or the defense tech space: build relationships, trust your instincts, research relentlessly, and pursue what energizes you rather than following conventional paths.If you’re a veteran seeking insight into entrepreneurship, defense technology, or purposeful career transitions after service, this episode is a must-listen.🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🔗 Follow on LinkedIn → @The Military Veteran 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.#Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #MarineCorps #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #StartupLife #VentureCapital #MilitaryTransition #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Michael Martin, United States Naval Academy graduate, former Navy SEAL, global hedge fund leader, and now Co-Founder & President USA of Tiberius Aerospace, a cutting-edge defense technology company.Michael shares his remarkable journey from the Seal Teams, to the high-pressure world of Wall Street, to becoming a key figure in Defense Tech 3.0. He discusses how the values and mindset forged in Naval Special Warfare shaped his ability to thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments — and how building authentic, long-term relationships became the foundation for every chapter of his career.Listeners will gain insight into:How elite military experience translates into high-performance roles in finance, technology, and entrepreneurshipBuilding trust-based networks that create opportunities years — or decades — laterLessons from the trading floor: risk, decisiveness, humility, and “long-term greedy” relationship buildingNavigating setbacks, including being fired, and how to turn career disruption into reinventionThe shift from finance to defense tech and why mission-driven work mattersWhat Defense 3.0 looks like — and why disruptive, globally connected technology companies are reshaping modern securityBalancing leadership, family, community service, and purpose, including Michael’s ongoing commitment to the SEAL community and veteran support organizationsMichael also shares how Tiberius is revolutionizing ramjet and propulsion technology, attracting global interest, and preparing to scale rapidly — and why he believes now is the most critical moment for innovative defense solutions.If you’re a veteran exploring career transitions, high-performance industries, tech leadership, or mission-driven entrepreneurship, this conversation offers hard-won wisdom, actionable insight, and inspiration from someone who has reinvented himself across three demanding fields.Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military VeteranSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #NavySEALs #CareerTransition #FinanceCareers #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #VetSuccess #Innovation #HedgeFunds #Defense30 #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #Networking #Resilience #VeteranFounders Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Tyler Temple — U.S. Navy veteran, former damage controlman, and Founder/CEO of Pollentia Inc.Tyler shares his journey from growing up fascinated by boats and spending time on ferries, to joining the Navy and gaining hands-on experience in damage control and ship operations, to identifying a gap in the boating industry and founding a company focused on safety, accessibility, and cutting-edge technology. He discusses how his Navy experience shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and inspired the development of his AI-driven co-captain system — a centralized intelligence tool designed to make boating safer and simpler for everyone.Listeners will gain insight into:How early experiences and military service can ignite a lifelong passion and career pathThe importance of embracing failure, learning fast, and using setbacks to innovateHow to identify gaps in a market and create a differentiated product that is difficult to replicatePractical strategies for entrepreneurship, including planning, building the right team, and understanding your ecosystemThe value of humility, curiosity, and listening to your customers in driving successLessons on transitioning from the military to a tech-focused business environmentTyler also shares his vision for the future of marine technology and the goal of becoming the primary source for marine intelligence, while keeping boating accessible, safe, and user-friendly.If you’re a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, technology, or looking to transition into business after service, this conversation offers actionable advice, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at building a startup from the ground up.Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.orgFollow us on LinkedIn → @TheMilVetSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #Navy #Entrepreneurship #TechStartup #CareerTransition #MilitaryToBusiness #MarineTechnology #VeteranFounders #Innovation #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #EntrepreneurialMindset #AI #BoatingSafety Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Shawn Robertson — Founder and Leadership Coach at Eternal Lessons and a transitioning US Army SOF Veteran. Shawn shares his remarkable journey from West Point to leading high-performing teams in the Army, to discovering his true passion for coaching and leadership development. He discusses how military experience shaped his ability to identify potential in others, develop elite performers, and translate those lessons into meaningful impact in the civilian world.Listeners will gain insight into:How elite military leadership experience translates into coaching, organizational development, and executive impactThe process of recognizing and cultivating talent, even in high-performing teamsLessons from graduate school, West Point, and special operations that shaped his coaching philosophyThe challenges and mindset shifts involved in transitioning from military to civilian lifeHow to harness untapped potential in individuals and organizations through his “Dormant 40” frameworkThe story behind Eternal Lessons and its mission to turn experience into actionable, lifelong lessonsInsights into writing his upcoming book, “Activate” A Counterintuitive Guide to Unlocking Team Potential designed to guide leaders to unlock human potential (Summer 2026)Whether you’re a veteran navigating a career transition, a leader looking to elevate your team, or someone interested in human capital and organizational psychology, this conversation offers actionable wisdom, inspiration, and a unique perspective on leadership and potential.Subscribe to TheMilVet Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #ArmyOfficers #CareerTransition #Coaching #HighPerformanceTeams #OrganizationalPsychology #HumanPotential #VeteranFounders #EternalLessons #TheMilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #ExecutiveCoaching #Activate Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Steve Tazza — U.S. Navy veteran, Naval Academy graduate, longtime investment management professional, former COO of a software operating company, and a Middle Market Investor/Operator at a private family office.Steve shares an honest, reflective look at his path from growing up the youngest of four in a military-influenced household, to discovering a calling for service shaped by his World War II Marine father, to navigating the Naval Academy experience in the pre-internet era. He discusses how injuries redirected his commissioning plans, how his time as a supply officer aboard the aircraft carrier Constellation opened his eyes to the business world, and how a curiosity for financial markets sparked a post-Navy career that eventually led to Wall Street, investment management, and later, operating leadership inside a PE-backed software company.Listeners will gain insight into:How early influences, role models, and service culture shaped Steve’s decision to attend the Naval AcademyWhy exposure to diverse people and backgrounds in the military becomes an unmatched foundation for leadershipHow setbacks—like injuries and unexpected career pivots—can create new opportunitiesThe origins of Steve’s interest in financial markets and how handwritten letters, persistence, and “just showing up” opened doors in the pre-digital networking worldWhat it’s like entering the private equity ecosystem later in a career and leading through a full PE transaction as COOWhy veterans should understand vocabulary, context, and industry language when breaking into finance or private marketsTimeless transition advice: grit, adaptability, learning from good and bad leaders, and maximizing the power of mentorshipSteve also reflects on the value of humility, the privilege of serving alongside people from all walks of life, and the importance of lifelong curiosity—whether in uniform, on Wall Street, or in private equity–backed operations.If you’re a veteran exploring business, finance, or private equity—or simply someone interested in an authentic, grounded perspective on service and career transition—this conversation offers wisdom, candor, and lessons that stand the test of time.Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org Follow us on LinkedIn → @The Military VeteranSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #Navy #PrivateEquity #Finance #InvestmentManagement #CareerTransition #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranLeadership #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #VeteransInFinance #COO #Networking #TransitionAdvice Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Brian O’Connor — U.S. Navy veteran, former Tactical Information Operations Operator (TIO-O) with Naval Special Warfare, and now the CEO and Founder of Darksaber Labs, a cutting-edge defense technology company focused on AI, cyber, and electronic warfare at the tactical edge.Brian shares his incredible journey from growing up in New York during 9/11 and enlisting in the Navy to becoming a key player in the intelligence and special operations community. He talks about his path through BUD/S, the challenges of being medically disqualified from SEAL training, and how that setback ultimately led him to a purpose-driven career in signals intelligence (SIGINT) and later, defense technology entrepreneurship.Listeners will gain insight into:How adversity and adaptability shaped Brian’s military and entrepreneurial journeyThe evolution of SIGINT and electronic warfare and why “AI at the edge” is critical for the future fightLessons learned from deployments to Iraq and Yemen supporting SEAL teams and coalition partnersHis decision to transition from military service to building Darksaber LabsReal-world advice for veterans breaking into the defense tech and startup ecosystemThe power of networking, persistence, and understanding your value as a veteran in the private sectorBrian also dives into the complexities of working in the defense innovation space—from navigating government contracting and venture capital to understanding the congressional funding process and the importance of focus over “dual-use” distractions.If you’re a veteran entrepreneur, a tech professional, or someone passionate about national security innovation, this episode offers a powerful look at resilience, leadership, and mission-driven purpose beyond the uniform.Connect with MilVet → themilvet.org Follow us on LinkedIn → @MilVet Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower and connect the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #Navy #DefenseTech #AI #Entrepreneurship #CyberSecurity #Transition #SIGINT #Innovation #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService #VeteranFounders #MilitaryToTech Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

In this episode of the MilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Mack Ohlinger — U.S. Army veteran, West Point graduate, London Business School alumnus, and Co-Founder & CEO of Dunedain, an AI-driven defense technology company redefining how the military makes critical decisions.Mack shares his journey from leading soldiers in the Army to leading engineers and product teams in the fast-paced world of defense innovation. He breaks down how Warmind is helping the Department of Defense accelerate decision-making processes — shrinking the traditional Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP) from 12–24 hours to under one hour — and enabling what he calls true “C2 overmatch” on the modern battlefield.Listeners will get an inside look at how Mack and his team are tackling inefficiencies that cost billions of dollars and millions of labor hours each year, while building tools that empower warfighters to think, decide, and act faster than ever before. Beyond the technology, Mack opens up about the entrepreneurial journey — from the importance of finding the right co-founder and building a strong network, to balancing confidence with humility and learning to pivot quickly in the startup world.For veterans curious about entrepreneurship, defense tech, or how to turn military insight into innovation, Mack offers grounded, actionable advice — including how to start building before you start pitching, how to attract the right investors, and why success ultimately comes down to team, timing, and relentless execution.This conversation dives deep into leadership, innovation, and service — from the battlefield to the boardroom — with one of the defense sector’s most exciting young founders.If you’re a veteran looking to build, lead, or innovate after service, this episode will leave you motivated to take that first step.🎧 Connect with MilVet → [milvet.org] 💼 Follow us on LinkedIn → @MilVet 📱 Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations that empower the veteran community.#Veterans #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #AI #Innovation #Army #Transition #C2Overmatch #Warmind #MilVetPodcast #ServiceAfterService Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:Tweet us at @brendan_aronsonFollow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvetSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veteransCheck out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet