TheMilVet Podcast

Brendan Aronson and Tim Hsia
  • 5.0 (21)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Your hosts, Brendan Aronson and Tim Hsia, interview the highest-performing military veterans & civilian allies on earth. Our guests include CEOs of multibillion-dollar companies, founders of incredible businesses, and legendary investors. Our goal is educate, inspire, and entertain you. 

  1. 5D AGO

    Ep. 156 Turning Fear Into a Superpower: Lessons from Thunderbird Pilot and Author Michelle “MACE” Curran

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Michelle “MACE” Curran, U.S. Air Force veteran, former Thunderbird pilot, and author, to explore her extraordinary journey from fighter jets to inspiring audiences around the world. MACE shares how her time in the Air Force—culminating as one of the few female Thunderbird pilots—shaped her approach to leadership, overcoming fear, and finding purpose in high-pressure environments. Throughout the conversation, MACE dives into the lessons military veterans can bring to civilian life, including resilience, risk management, and mission-focused thinking, while offering practical advice for transitioning into entrepreneurship, speaking, and storytelling. She also discusses the power of mentorship, networking, and leveraging your unique experiences to make an impact beyond the military. Listeners will gain insight into: Translating military skills like discipline, focus, and courage into entrepreneurial and civilian successNavigating career transitions after service, including choosing purpose over the “easy path”Overcoming imposter syndrome and fear while pursuing bold, unconventional goalsBuilding a personal brand and using platforms like LinkedIn to tell your story and create opportunitiesInspiring the next generation through children’s books and adult storytellingThe value of mentorship, authentic networking, and giving back to create long-term impactLessons from near-miss experiences, high-stakes decision-making, and leadership under pressureMACE also shares insights from her books—Upside Down Dreams, What’s Your Call Sign, and The Flip Side: How to Invert Your Perspective and Turn Fear into Your Superpower—and how she translates lessons from the cockpit into actionable strategies for anyone facing fear, self-doubt, or career pivots. Whether you’re a transitioning veteran, aspiring leader, or someone ready to chase big dreams, this episode provides inspiration, practical guidance, and a roadmap for turning challenges into opportunities. 🔗 Connect with MACE → macecurran.com 🔗 Follow on Instagram → @mace_curran 🔗 Follow on LinkedIn → Michelle “MACE” Curran 🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #Veterans #AirForce #Leadership #CareerTransition #Entrepreneurship #PublicSpeaking #Books #Motivation #Mentorship #Networking #MilitaryToCivilian #Resilience #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation: Tweet us at @brendan_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    57 min

  2. FEB 18

    Ep. 155 From the Frontlines to the Boardroom: Josh Welle’s Guide for Veterans Entering Tech and Business

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Josh Welle, U.S. Navy veteran, former officer, and Vice President, Global Head of Cybersecurity Portfolio for Capgemini. Josh shares his journey from serving in the Navy to navigating leadership roles at top companies like Capgemini and beyond, bridging the gap between military service and the corporate landscape. Throughout the conversation, Josh dives into the lessons military veterans can bring to the civilian workforce, including resilience, mission focus, and teamwork, while offering practical advice for transitioning into tech, cybersecurity, and corporate roles. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building networks, and showing up with a positive attitude and willingness to contribute beyond your job description. Listeners will gain insight into: How military skills—discipline, resilience, and mission focus—translate directly into corporate and tech successPractical steps for veterans to break into cybersecurity, tech, and consulting, even without formal experienceThe power of networking as a “team of teams” approach rather than a one-way askHow veterans can stand out in corporate environments through initiative, collaboration, and commitmentJosh’s personal work with veterans, aspiring cadets, and underrepresented communities to help them succeed in corporate AmericaBalancing work, life, and service-driven passions while remaining grounded in purpose and family Josh also shares insights into corporate culture, veteran-friendly companies, and how to leverage your military mindset to thrive in civilian careers. Whether you’re a transitioning veteran or someone supporting the veteran community, this episode provides actionable strategies, inspiration, and real-world guidance for taking the next step after service. 🔗 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 #Navy #Leadership #CareerTransition #Cybersecurity #TechCareers #CorporateAmerica #Mentorship #Networking #MilitaryToTech #Resilience #TeamOfTeams #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation: Tweet us at @brendan_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    54 min

  3. FEB 11

    Ep. 154 From Scout Sniper to Startup Founder: Jake Wilmes on Coding, AI, and Meaningful Job Applications

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Jacob “Jake” Wilmes, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, former scout sniper, self-taught coder, AI and machine learning engineer, and founder of Hire Calling. Jake shares his journey from serving in elite combat roles to navigating the complexities of civilian life, learning to code from scratch, and breaking into the tech industry with no formal background. He candidly discusses the challenges of transitioning from the military, the frustrations veterans face when applying to civilian jobs, and how perseverance, mentorship, and creative problem-solving shaped his path from startup roles to launching his own company. Throughout the conversation, Jake walks through his non-linear career: learning coding and AI on his own, interning and working at tech startups, tackling diverse roles from software development to hardware troubleshooting, earning a master’s degree in data science to formalize his credentials, and ultimately founding Hire Calling — a platform designed to make the hiring process more transparent and engaging for both job seekers and employers. Listeners will gain insight into: How military problem-solving skills translate to entrepreneurship, tech, and startup environmentsThe realities of learning coding, AI, and machine learning from scratch while pivoting into civilian careersWhy veterans often face “application black holes” and what can be done to bridge the gapHow Hire Calling links job applications to nonprofit donations to increase transparency and trustThe challenges of raising capital, selling your vision to investors, and building a product pre-launchLessons learned about mentorship, persistence, and creative networking in both tech and entrepreneurship Jake also shares practical advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, from leveraging your military skills, building networks, and navigating funding, to understanding startup life and market opportunities. If you’re a veteran exploring technology, AI, startups, or your next mission after service, this episode delivers actionable insights, inspiring stories, and real-world guidance from someone who’s navigated the transition, learned to code from the ground up, and is now building a platform to help other veterans succeed. 🔗 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 #MarineCorps #Leadership #CareerTransition #Entrepreneurship #TechStartups #AI #MachineLearning #VeteranFounders #MilitaryToTech #StartupLife #ServiceAfterService #Resilience #HireCalling #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation: Tweet us at @brendan_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    46 min

  4. FEB 4

    Ep. 153 From Special Forces to Startup Founder: John Price on Leadership, Grit, and Betting on Yourself

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with John Price, US Army Special Forces veteran, former Senate staffer, private equity operator, and founder of HighGround. John shares his journey from a college student at the University of Colorado Boulder whose life changed on September 11th, to joining the Army through the 18X Special Forces program, serving alongside elite teammates, and later navigating a challenging transition out of the military. He offers a candid look at the realities of leaving service without a clear plan, the identity shift veterans face, and how lessons from Special Forces — discipline, grit, planning, and trust in your compass — translate powerfully into business, private equity, and entrepreneurship. Throughout the conversation, John walks through his non-linear civilian career: earning his MBA, working in Fortune 500 leadership roles, advising and fixing PE-backed portfolio companies, serving in the U.S. Senate on AI and acquisition reform, leading corporate development at Deloitte, and ultimately betting on himself to build a software company focused on making government markets easier to understand and navigate. Listeners will gain insight into: Why military leadership and resilience provide an edge in private equity, venture capital, and founder rolesThe hard truths of transitioning from the military — and why having a plan matters more than the plan itselfHow to overcome imposter syndrome and compete confidently in elite business and academic environmentsWhy understanding culture matters more than trying to “change” it in large organizationsHow private equity and government contracting really work — and the gaps veterans must close to succeedWhat it’s actually like to pitch investors, hear repeated “no’s,” and keep moving forward as a founderWhy education, mentorship, and “putting in the reps” are critical before taking on senior leadership rolesHow veterans should think about entrepreneurship as both a sprint and a marathon John also shares practical, hard-earned advice for veterans considering the founder path — from building the right team and doing deep market homework, to knowing which parts of military culture to bring forward and which to leave behind. If you’re a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, private equity, venture capital, government-focused technology, or simply trying to chart your next mission after service, this episode delivers grounded perspective, real talk, and actionable guidance from someone who’s lived every phase of the journey. 🔗 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 #SpecialForces #Leadership #CareerTransition #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #GovTech #DefenseTech #StartupFounders #VeteranEntrepreneurs #ServiceAfterService #Resilience #MilVet #TheMilVetPodcast Thanks for listening! Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation: Tweet us at @brendan_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    1h 6m

  5. JAN 28

    Ep. 152 Why Veterans Win in Startups: Raj Shah on Grit, Risk, and Building Defense Tech Companies

    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 warfare Raj 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_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    47 min

  6. JAN 21

    Ep. 151 From Marine Corps Infantry to Consulting and the Invictus Games: Patrick Nugent’s Story of Resilience

    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_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    49 min

  7. JAN 14

    Ep. 150 From Marine Officer to Defense Tech Investor: Sean Bielat’s Non-Linear Career Journey

    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_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    52 min

  8. JAN 7

    Ep. 149 From Marine to Founder: Clint Alanis on Transitioning, Trust, and Defense Tech Innovation

    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 MBA Listeners 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 impact Clint 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_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet

    1h 7m
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5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Your hosts, Brendan Aronson and Tim Hsia, interview the highest-performing military veterans & civilian allies on earth. Our guests include CEOs of multibillion-dollar companies, founders of incredible businesses, and legendary investors. Our goal is educate, inspire, and entertain you. 

Information

  • Creator
    Brendan Aronson and Tim Hsia
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    157
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 TheMilVet Podcast
  • Show Website
    TheMilVet Podcast

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