HeadHunters NW Podcast

Shaylene Keiner

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast! I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader. As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals. I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first! Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great! Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available. Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

  1. 6d ago

    HHNW Ep. 065 Part 2 - Trent Marsh, Marketing Director, Riton Optics

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  In part two of the HeadHunters NW Podcast with Trent Marsh, the conversation covers how millennial leadership and shifting workplace expectations—remote work, commute tolerance, benefits, and a desire to understand "why"—are changing hiring, management, and brand marketing.  Shaylene and Trent discuss the reduced stigma around job changes, the need for employees to have agency, and how fear of failure can lead to ineffective marketing; effective brands must serve both current and future customers while allowing teams to test and learn.  Trent argues good marketing is omnidirectional, not just print or social media, citing Gun Talk as a model for multi-channel evolution. They also examine AI as a force multiplier for tasks and logic-checking rather than a replacement for human storytelling, relationships, and industry knowledge, noting growing challenges getting brands to support media with timely, informed communication. Check out the latest article by Trent Marsh: The New Old Guard in the Firearms Industry | Hunting Retailer     Riton Optics Website:  https://ritonoptics.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/riton-optics/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RitonOptics Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ritonusa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritonoptics/   Trent Marsh LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-marsh-40217956/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tmarsh83 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmarsh8364/   FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  2. 6d ago

    HHNW Ep. 065 Part 1 - Trent Marsh, Marketing Director, Riton Optics

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  On this episode of the HeadHunters NW podcast, Shaylene welcomes longtime industry marketer and writer Trent Marsh of Riton Optics to discuss his article "The New Old Guard," published in Tactical Retailer and Hunting Retailer.  Marsh explains how FBI NICS background-check data shows an unprecedented multi-year decline after a surge from 2019 to 2020, followed by five consecutive negative years—something not seen from 2005–2019. He details historical election-driven cycles, calculates a shortfall versus projected growth, and explores contributing factors such as changing state gun-law dynamics, fatigue with panic buying, stockpiled collections, and reduced disposable income among younger buyers.  The episode sets up a two-part discussion on generational leadership transition and future marketing strategy. Check out the latest article by Trent Marsh: The New Old Guard in the Firearms Industry | Hunting Retailer     Riton Optics Website:  https://ritonoptics.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/riton-optics/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RitonOptics Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ritonusa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritonoptics/   Trent Marsh LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-marsh-40217956/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tmarsh83 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmarsh8364/   FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  3. Aug 3

    HHNW Ep. 064 - Jeff Stawiarski, Co-President, ZEV Technologies

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.   work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  In this episode, Shaylene talks with Jeff Stawiarski, co-president of ZEV Technologies, about an open Director of Operations role reporting directly to ZEV's co-presidents and why it's a critical position in the company's rebuild and growth. Based in ZEV's new Riverton, Utah facility following the move from Washington, this leader will help "get the simple things right," bring structure, revise layout and workflow for inflow/outflow, and drive daily communication, collaboration, planning, and execution across assembly, inventory, shipping, compliance, quality, and supply chain within the organization. The role is designed for an A-player who can set direction (not wait for it) and help scale operations as ZEV expands production.. The episode also covers ZEV's investment in training, cross-training, and a compliance-first approach supported by an experienced regulatory team member. If you are interested in this position, don't wait to reach out to Shaylene and learn more at shaylene@headhuntersnw.com   FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  4. Jul 21

    HHNW Ep. 063 - Jack Jameson, BSF Barrels

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  In this episode, we interview Jack Jameson about his 20+ year career in the firearms industry and his role at BSF Barrels. Jack recounts starting in retail with Lowe's, moving to Bass Pro Shops corporate, then progressing through sales roles at Beretta (territory sales), Crimson Trace/AOB (national accounts), a brief stint at Faxon Firearms, and VP of Sales at Stag Arms/Aero Precision, emphasizing relationship-building and product knowledge.  He explains BSF Barrels (Blackstone Firearms) in Delavan, Wisconsin, founded in 2017 by owner Aaron after long lead times from other makers, and notes BSF's OEM focus (Weatherby, Savage, Henry) alongside growing consumer and retailer sales. Jack details BSF's patented roll-wrapped carbon fiber barrel process, caliber range, upcoming product expansion, new Sports South distribution, facility expansion, and hiring needs. Jack is a textbook example of how to work your way up in this industry, and he invites people interested in working in the industry to contact him: Contact Jack   jackj@bsfbarrels.com  Website https://www.bsfbarrels.com/   FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  5. Jun 16

    HHNW Ep. 062 - Keith Kennedy, President StratellusIQ

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  In this HeadHunters NW podcast episode, I sit down with marketing professional Keith Kennedy to talk about his journey from the Marine Corps into marketing and his work with AI through his company, StratellisIQ. Keith explains how he began exploring AI around 2023, influenced by tools like Adobe Firefly and by seeing advanced defense-sector AI, and why he's focused on practical, outcome-driven AI for businesses.  He outlines key areas where AI can help—revenue and sales support, cost and time savings, customer experience, and process efficiency—emphasizing starting with goals and processes before choosing tools. He describes "human in the loop/on the loop/out of the loop," shares examples including AI-assisted sales outreach and automated warranty/RMA customer service, and argues AI will augment rather than replace people.  Contact Keith info@stratellusiq.com Website www.stratellusiq.com   FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  6. May 12

    HHNW Ep. 061 - Clay Cheshire, Defense Industry General Counsel

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  In this episode, Shaylene visits with attorney Clay Cheshire, founder of Defense Industry General Counsel, about serving firearms and broader defense-industry clients who need outside general counsel. Clay explains his practice focuses on highly regulated businesses and the value of regulatory experience across agencies like ATF and the State Department, including support for software companies serving regulated clients or battlefield technologies.  They discuss what makes attorney-client relationships work, emphasizing frequent communication, non-transactional partnerships, and proactive planning to reduce cost and stress. Clay shares examples of strategic counsel around controversial but legal products and exit/retirement and generational succession planning. He warns that delaying legal involvement in deals, especially international, can lock in bad terms. They cover growing state-level regulation, efforts by gun control groups to create uncertainty for companies and investors, and a Second Circuit insurance coverage decision involving intentional-act exclusions. Clay advises treating counsel as a decision-making team member and shares how rewarding working in the firearms industry is for him. Website:  https://defenseindustrygc.com Contact Information:       Clay Cheshire       clay@defenseindustrygc.com       404.579.7084 (cell) FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  7. Apr 28

    HHNW Ep. 060 - Nathan Schueth,  Director of Sales and Business Development, HK USA

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development  Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  On this episode of  HeadHunters NW Podcast, Shaylene has an in-depth conversation with Nathan Schueth, Director of Sales and Business Development at HK USA, highlighting both his professional journey and an exciting new career opportunity within the organization. Schueth shared his unique path into the firearms industry, beginning with his service in the Marine Corps and evolving through international business, industry writing, and early-stage growth roles before joining HK nearly a decade ago. His experience reflects a rare blend of technical expertise, sales acumen, and strategic insight—qualities that have helped shape HK's strong market position and collaborative internal culture. A central focus of the episode was HK's search for a National Sales Manager for Commercial Sales, a pivotal leadership role reporting directly to Schueth. This position offers far more than traditional sales management responsibilities. The selected candidate will play a key role in shaping national sales strategy, influencing product development, and contributing to the company's long-term growth trajectory. To learn more about this position, contact HeadHunters NW, the exclusive recruiting firm representing HK for filling this position. Email Shaylene:  shaylene@headhuntersnw.com for information about the position. HK Website:  https://hk-usa.com/ FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

  8. Apr 14

    HHNW Ep. 059 - Mark Cherpes

    Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!  I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.  As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.  I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!  Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!  Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.  Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development    Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!  In this HeadHunters NW Podcast episode, Shaylene interviews Mark Cherpes, former President and CEO of FN America, about his 25-year career with FN and earlier work at the Pentagon in the Navy office and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.  Mark describes leading FN's U.S. operations through major growth, merging two culturally different organizations, and developing strategies to reduce reliance on cyclical defense business by expanding from military into law enforcement and consumer markets. He discusses building strategy and product portfolio growth, including factory red-dot integration. Mark also covers brand protection through strong compliance and crisis management, managing stakeholders from Congress to the board, hiring for character and cultural fit, lessons learned from not following his gut on a hire, and opportunities and regulatory risks ahead. He notes his involvement with the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation and plans to attend NRA. Email Mark  mark.cherpes@icloud.com Find Mark on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-l-cherpes-0b7889313   FIND US: On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

About

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast! I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader. As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals. I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first! Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great! Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available. Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

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