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. 19H AGO

    Ep. 169 Faith, Resilience & Defense Innovation | Clark Yuan on Transitioning from the Army to Entrepreneurship

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Clark Yuan, Founder and CEO of Stitch3D, United States Army Veteran, and West Point graduate. Clark shares his journey from growing up in a Taiwanese military family to serving as a Military Intelligence officer in the U.S. Army, and ultimately transitioning into entrepreneurship and defense tech innovation. Clark discusses how his experiences in the military, particularly working with geospatial intelligence and fragmented data-sharing systems, inspired him to build Stitch3D, a platform designed to make spatial and geospatial data easier to access, visualize, and collaborate on. He explains how the company evolved from an Air Force-funded research initiative into a venture-backed commercial SaaS platform serving enterprise customers. The conversation dives deep into the realities of military transition, the challenges of building a startup in the defense ecosystem, and the lessons learned navigating SBIR funding, venture capital, and dual-use technology markets. Clark offers an honest perspective on the gap between government R&D funding and long-term acquisition success, why many startups struggle in the defense space, and how founders can position themselves for sustainable growth. Beau and Clark also discuss resilience, leadership, mentorship, and the importance of faith and personal grounding while navigating the pressures of entrepreneurship. Clark shares how finding his faith during the startup journey helped redefine success beyond business metrics and gave him perspective through the uncertainty of building a company. Listeners will gain insight into: How military operational problems can become startup opportunitiesLessons learned transitioning from the Army into entrepreneurshipThe realities of SBIR/STTR funding and defense innovation programsWhy many defense startups struggle to move from R&D to acquisitionHow venture capital and government funding can complement each otherThe importance of customer discovery and product-market fitWhy commercial traction can be critical before pursuing government scaleThe value of veteran networks, mentorship, and communityHow faith, resilience, and purpose influence leadership and entrepreneurshipWhat veterans should know before entering the startup or defense tech ecosystemClark also shares candid advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship, including the importance of humility, adaptability, and building relationships with founders, investors, and operators who have already navigated the path. Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, interested in defense technology, exploring venture-backed startups, or considering founding your own company, this episode delivers practical insights and real-world lessons from someone building at the intersection of national security and innovation. 🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → TheMilVet  🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #Veterans #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Startups #NationalSecurity #VentureCapital #SBIR #Innovation #FounderJourney #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

    33 min

  2. MAY 20

    Ep. 168 From the Navy to Billions in Real Estate Investing: Tom Lynch on Career Growth and Private Equity

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with Tom Lynch, a Managing Partner at Iron Point Partners and former U.S. Navy JAG officer, about his path from military service into finance and private equity. Tom reflects on how his background shaped his leadership style, transition into investing, and career in real estate private equity. Tom reflects on the influence of military service and Jesuit education in shaping his leadership philosophy, work ethic, and commitment to service. He discusses his unconventional path into finance - attending Dartmouth College and UVA Law, serving as a Navy criminal defense attorney, and later leveraging the GI Bill to earn a business degree while still on active duty. Tom offers candid insight into what it was like entering Wall Street as a nontraditional candidate in his late twenties with a military background and young family. Throughout the episode, Tom emphasizes the value veterans bring to the private sector, including leadership, adaptability, teamwork, discipline, and judgment under pressure. He encourages transitioning service members to embrace their unique backgrounds rather than viewing themselves as “behind” their civilian peers, reminding listeners that careers are long and that military experience can become a lifelong differentiator. Listeners will gain insight into: Transitioning from military service into investment banking and private equityHow veterans can leverage networking and mentorship to enter financeWhy military leadership experience is a major competitive advantageThe realities of entering Wall Street as a nontraditional candidateWhat family offices are and how they operateLessons learned building and fundraising for private equity fundsThe evolution of real estate investing and digital infrastructureWhy culture and teamwork matter in long-term career successHow veterans can position themselves for leadership roles in businessThe importance of resilience, continuous learning, and long-term thinkingTom also shares how service remains central to his life today through his involvement with organizations including Gonzaga College High School, the Washington Jesuit Academy, St. Matthew’s Cathedral, and the Yellow Ribbon Fund, which supports injured service members and their families navigating recovery and long-term care. Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, exploring opportunities in private equity or finance, interested in entrepreneurship and investing, or simply looking for lessons on leadership and long-term career growth, this episode delivers practical advice and real-world perspective from someone who successfully navigated the path from military service to private equity leadership. 🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → TheMilVet  🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #Veterans #PrivateEquity #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Finance #RealEstate #InvestmentBanking #Entrepreneurship #VeteranCareers #Networking #FamilyOffice #DigitalInfrastructure #DataCenters #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

    42 min

  3. MAY 13

    Ep. 167 From Marine to Founder: Giles Walger on Building a Defense Tech Company That Solves Real Warfighter Problems

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Giles Walger, Founder of OODAx, and United States Marine Corps veteran. Giles shares how his transition from the Marine Corps to Amazon’s Pathways program - and later to AWS Mission Engineering - equipped him with the tools, mindset, and network needed to thrive in the private sector and ultimately launch his own company. Giles dives into how his experience solving complex warfighter problems at AWS shaped his entrepreneurial path, giving him a “real-world MBA” in product-market fit, customer discovery, and navigating the complexities of government acquisition. He explains how OODAx helps emerging defense tech companies bridge the gap between innovation and the Department of Defense by accelerating access, aligning with mission needs, and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles. The conversation also unpacks the realities of transitioning out of the military, the importance of starting over with humility, and why veterans are uniquely positioned to succeed in high-impact industries like defense tech and venture-backed startups. Listeners will gain insight into: How military experience translates into success in corporate and startup environmentsThe “three C’s” (care, conviction, competence) and why they matter in any careerWhat makes Amazon and AWS valuable stepping stones for veterans entering techHow to navigate the defense tech ecosystem and avoid common pitfallsThe concept of “product-mission-system fit” and why it’s critical for government salesKey questions to evaluate startups before joining themHow to break into defense tech, venture capital, or private equity-backed companiesThe importance of mentorship, networking, and paying it forwardGiles also shares practical resources - including podcasts, books, and strategies - for veterans looking to break into defense tech, along with candid advice on choosing the right company and building a meaningful post-service career. Whether you’re transitioning out of the military, considering entrepreneurship, or looking to enter the defense innovation space, this episode offers actionable insights and a clear roadmap for success. 🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #Veterans #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #CareerTransition #Leadership #Startups #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Networking #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

    37 min

  4. MAY 6

    Ep. 166 From Battlefield to Congress to Boardroom: Patrick Murphy’s Leadership Journey

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Patrick J. Murphy, Executive Director of Hilco Global, former Congressman, and United States Army Veteran. Patrick shares his remarkable journey from a blue-collar upbringing in Philadelphia to the 82nd Airborne Division, deploying to Iraq, and later serving in Congress where he helped shape landmark legislation like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. He reflects on how his experiences in combat and public service fueled his desire to continue serving in new ways - eventually leading him into the private sector, venture capital, and his current role at Hilco Global. The conversation dives deep into the realities of transition - from the uncertainty of leaving the military to the grind of running for office, and later, reinventing himself in business. Patrick shares candid insights on resilience, rejection, and the importance of staying mission-focused through every phase of life. Listeners will gain insight into: Why “your network is your net worth” is more than just a phrase - it’s a career strategyHow to embrace adversity (“embrace the suck”) and turn setbacks into momentumThe skills veterans bring to leadership roles in government and businessLessons from serving in Congress and leading at the highest levels of the militaryHow to successfully transition into private equity, venture capital, and the commercial sectorThe importance of communication and simplifying complex ideasWhy continuous learning and self-improvement are essential for long-term successPatrick also shares practical advice for veterans looking to break into new industries - emphasizing the power of mentorship, relationship-building, and taking initiative. His story is a testament to the idea that careers are rarely linear, and that purpose-driven leadership can evolve across multiple domains. Whether you're transitioning out of the military, exploring public service, or looking to break into business and investing, this episode offers hard-earned wisdom, actionable advice, and inspiration from someone who has led on the battlefield, in Congress, and in the boardroom. 🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #TheMilVetPodcast #Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #Networking #PublicService #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #ServiceAfterService 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

    43 min

  5. APR 29

    Ep. 165 - From Fighter Pilot to Founder: Thomas Higginbotham on Building the Future of Defense AI with Kestrel

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with Thomas Higginbotham, Founder and CEO of Kestrel and United States Air Force Veteran. Thomas shares how growing up in a multi-generational Air Force family, serving as a fighter pilot, and later working through a grueling flight training experience shaped his resilience and mission-driven mindset. The conversation follows his journey from active duty to Stanford, then into roles at Google X and C3 AI, where he developed deep expertise in AI, enterprise systems, and defense technology. Thomas explains how he identified a scalable opportunity in defense software and ultimately founded Kestrel, while reflecting on the realities of becoming a founder, learning to sell, building conviction, navigating investor skepticism, and committing fully to a vision before the market fully existed. Listeners will gain insight into: How military experience can translate into startup leadership and technical innovationThe importance of grit and resilience built through real-world adversityWhy sensor orchestration is becoming a critical capability in modern defense systemsHow Stanford, Google X, and C3 AI shaped a founder’s mindsetLessons in enterprise sales, product-market fit, and government procurementWhy conviction is essential when building a company before the market fully existsThe role of culture fit in career transitions from military to civilian lifeHow to think about “selling” as a core professional and leadership skillWhat it takes to leave a stable career and commit fully to a startupThomas also shares candid advice for aspiring founders, especially veterans, emphasizing the importance of conviction, preparation, and understanding the increasing competitiveness of the defense tech landscape. Whether you're a veteran exploring entrepreneurship, a technologist interested in defense innovation, or someone navigating a major career transition, this episode delivers grounded insights on building, betting on yourself, and staying committed when the path forward is uncertain. 🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations with veterans building in venture capital, private equity, and founder-led companies. #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #AirForce #Startup #DefenseTech #ArtificialIntelligence #Entrepreneurship #Founders #Leadership #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

    40 min

  6. APR 22

    Ep. 164 From Military to Cloud: How Veterans Are Breaking Into Tech for Free

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Gregory Henson, founder of Cloud Veterans and former tech CEO, and Philip Lukaszonas, a U.S. Army veteran and manager of customer success at Ingram Micro to discuss how they are helping veterans build careers in cloud technology. Greg and Philip share the origin story behind Cloud Veterans—a nonprofit initiative built to solve a major gap in the hiring pipeline: talented veterans with the right mindset but lacking access to training, certifications, and guidance to enter the tech industry. Drawing from Greg’s experience scaling a global Microsoft partner and Philip’s own challenging transition out of the military, they unpack how Cloud Veterans is bridging that gap through free, structured, and community-driven training. The conversation dives into the realities many veterans face when transitioning, especially those from non-technical or combat arms backgrounds, and how programs like this are designed to meet them exactly where they are. From foundational certifications to advanced cloud pathways, Cloud Veterans provides not just training, but mentorship, accountability, and a lifelong support network. Listeners will gain insight into: Breaking into cloud and tech careers with zero prior experienceTranslating military skills like discipline, adaptability, and problem-solving into the corporate worldOvercoming imposter syndrome and intimidation around tech rolesThe importance of community, mentorship, and accountability in career transitionsHow hands-on labs, certifications, and real-world prep accelerate job readinessLeveraging AI tools to enhance job search, preparation, and long-term career growthWhy tech careers, especially in cloud, remain resilient in the age of AIGreg and Philip also share their bold vision for scaling Cloud Veterans to serve thousands of veterans annually, while maintaining a 100% free, volunteer-driven model supported by corporate sponsors. Their mission is clear: empower veterans and their spouses with the tools, training, and confidence needed to thrive in tech, and continue serving in new ways beyond the uniform. Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran exploring new career paths, or someone looking to break into tech, this episode offers practical guidance, inspiration, and a clear roadmap to get started. 🔗 Learn more about Cloud Veterans → cloudveterans.org 🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #TechCareers #CloudComputing #Leadership #CareerGrowth #Reskilling #AI #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

    37 min

  7. APR 15

    Ep. 163 From the White House to the Private Sector: Lessons from Ari Fleischer

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins speaks with former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer about career transitions, leadership in high-pressure environments, and building a path beyond government service. Fleischer reflects on how he moved from college with no clear plan to Capitol Hill and then to the White House, where he served as press secretary to President George W. Bush during the September 11 attacks. The conversation then shifts to Ari’s transition out of government after more than two decades of service. He breaks down how he navigated burnout, leveraged his network, and built a thriving career in communications consulting, advising major corporations and sports organizations during moments of crisis and public scrutiny. Listeners will gain insight into: How careers can evolve unexpectedly and why staying open to opportunity mattersThe power of networking (and why it’s really about relationships, not transactions)Lessons in leadership, loyalty, and accountability from the White HouseNavigating career transitions, burnout, and life after high-pressure rolesBuilding a consulting career by identifying and owning your unique skill setWhy specificity, not generality, is key when marketing yourself professionallyHow veterans can translate military experience into real-world career successAri also shares powerful perspectives on gratitude, service, and why veterans have a distinct advantage in the workforce; highlighting the discipline, resilience, and reliability that set them apart. Whether you're transitioning out of the military, exploring a career pivot, or looking to sharpen your professional edge, this episode delivers practical advice, real-world lessons, and inspiration from one of the most recognizable voices in modern political communications. 🔗 Learn more about TheMilVet → themilvet.org  🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.#Veterans #Leadership #CareerTransition #Networking #Consulting #PublicRelations #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

    41 min

  8. APR 8

    Ep. 162 Choosing Family Over Command: Randy Mullen on Building a Mission Beyond the Military

    In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Randy Mullen, Founder & CEO of Sightline Ventures and a former U.S. Air Force Officer, to explore his journey from military service to building a mission-driven company in the defense tech space. Randy shares how his upbringing near Edwards Air Force Base first sparked his interest in the military, eventually leading him into Air Force contracting and acquisitions. With experience spanning global deployments, the National Reconnaissance Office, and the Education with Industry program at Ball Aerospace, he developed a deep understanding of how the Department of Defense operates and how innovation reaches the warfighter. Throughout the conversation, Randy offers a candid look at one of the hardest decisions of his life: stepping away from a promising military career and command opportunity to prioritize his family. He opens up about the emotional weight of that transition, the uncertainty that followed, and how a series of unexpected pivots ultimately led him to entrepreneurship. Listeners will gain insight into: Choosing family over career and navigating the tension that comes with itEmbracing uncertainty and adapting when plans fall apartTranslating military experience into entrepreneurship and business developmentBuilding a company with purpose while continuing to serve beyond the uniformTaking calculated risks and betting on yourself during transitionReinventing yourself to stay challenged, relevant, and growingInvesting in mentorship, personal development, and long-term visionRandy also shares how Sightline Ventures is helping early-stage defense tech companies bridge the gap between innovation and implementation, ensuring critical technologies get into the hands of those who need them most. His story is a powerful reminder that while transition may be messy and unpredictable, it can also open doors to impact, growth, and renewed purpose. Whether you’re navigating your own transition, exploring entrepreneurship, or looking to lead with greater intention, this episode delivers practical insight and real-world perspective to help you move forward with confidence. 🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org  🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service. #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #DefenseTech #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #ServiceAfterService #Startups #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

    39 min
See All (170)

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
    170
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 TheMilVet Podcast
  • Show Website
    TheMilVet Podcast

You Might Also Like