Mission Matters Podcast

Shield Capital
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  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

The Mission Matters podcast from Shield Capital explores the intersection of technology, national security, and startups through in-depth conversations with early-stage founders and government technologists. Each episode reveals the opportunities, technical challenges, and innovations shaping the future of national security, offering insights from those on the front lines of technological evolution and national defense.

Episodes

  1. NOV 10

    The New Dawn of Defense Acquisition

    Last week, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth released a memo outlining a series of reforms to the defense acquisition system. In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, David Rothzeid and Mike Brown break down what these reforms are and what impact they will have on the defense startup community. We cover: The details of the reforms themselves (abolishing JCIDS, changing PEOs to PAEs, MOSA, and more)Why some legacy incumbents may resist these changesHow to incentivize people within the Department to make these reforms a realityHow startups should work to take advantage of the reformsAnd more For more, check out David's blog post on the subject: https://drothzeid.medium.com/making-speed-and-accountability-the-new-normal-in-defense-acquisition-88cb84adfb65

    55 min

  2. NOV 4

    How Missile Defense Actually Works

    There’s a lot of buzz these days around missile defense, but not much discussion around how missile defense actually works. In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, Matt and I sit down with Shield Capital Operating Partner and former Director of the Missile Defense Agency, Ltg. (ret.) Pat O’Reilly, to discuss the current state of missile defense. We cover: How missile defense actually works, breaking down a) the threats b) the kill chain and c) firing doctrine How missile defense has changed over the last several decades The role of startups and emerging technologies in the future of missile defense The state of our adversaries’ missile and missile defense systems As always, please let us know your thoughts, and please reach out if you or anyone you know is building in the national security domain.

    1h 2m

  3. OCT 28

    Rangeview: Manufacturing in the Cyber Foundry

    What will it take to actually bring manufacturing back to America? In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, Akhil and I sit down with Cameron Schiller and Aeden Gasser-Brennan, the founders of Rangeview, to discuss the current state manufacturing in the U.S. We discuss: What investment casting actually is and how Rangeview is revolutionizing the ancient manufacturing process Why China dominates much of today’s manufacturing landscape, particularly in the world of consumer electronics How modern defense manufacturing today differs from the manufacturing we did during WWII How industrial policy combined with new technologies can help bring manufacturing back to America As always, please let us know your thoughts, and please reach out if you or anyone you know is building in the national security domain.

    1h 6m

  4. SEP 11

    Seasats: Scaling Persistent Maritime Autonomy

    In this episode, we speak with Mike Flanigan, the CEO of Seasats, a startup building the future of maritime autonomy.

    59 min

  5. AUG 12

    Building the Software Defined Navy

    This month on the Mission Matters podcast, we sat down with Justin Fanelli, the CTO of the U.S. Department of the Navy, and Artem Sherbinin, the CTO of the U.S. Surface Navy to discuss the future software-defined Navy. We cover everything from computer vision deployment in the maritime domain to why technology will matter in a conflict with China to what “software defined warfare” actually means. As always, please let us know your thoughts, and please reach out if you or anyone you know is building in the national security domain. Key words: Navy, technology adoption, software-defined systems, integration, resilient communications, data integration, hybrid forces, geopolitical context, defense technology, innovation, AI integration, defense tech startups, naval operations, generative AI, military technology, DOD tech adoption, Ukraine conflict lessons, computer vision, maritime technology, startup advice Chapters Introduction to the Guests and Their Roles Challenges in Technology Adoption and Integration The Future of Software-Defined Warfare The Importance of Data Integration Geopolitical Context and the Navy's Role The Urgency of Technological Integration in Defense Reviving Patriotism and National Security Success Stories in Defense Technology Integration Building Effective Partnerships for Innovation Key Metrics for Measuring Success in Defense Integrating New Technologies with Existing Systems Learning from Successful Startups in Defense Advice for Startups Entering the Defense Space Innovative Program Management in Defense Strategic Partnerships and Funding Mechanisms Outcome-Driven Metrics and Accountability Future Wishes for Defense Technology Lessons from Ukraine for Indo-Pacific Conflicts Generative AI in the Navy Challenges of Technology Integration in the DoD Building for the Navy: Unique Considerations Computer Vision in the Maritime Domain Adversaries' Adoption of Maritime Technologies Understanding Adversaries' Military Technology Approaches

    1h 19m

  6. JUL 21

    Breaking Down the Defense Budget

    What does this new trillion-dollar defense budget and "Big Beautiful Bill" mean for national security startups? This week on the Mission Matters podcast, I sat down with my teammates Michael A. Brown and David Rothzeid, two former leaders at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), to unpack what the trillion-dollar defense budget really means for startups . With only $150B officially appropriated so far via the “Big Beautiful Bill,” there’s still a ton of complexity and opportunity ahead.We break down: 🔴 What’s actually been passed (hint: not the full trillion) and what’s still in flux 🔴 The current state of funding for cutting-edge technologies like Golden Dome, unmanned systems, space tech, and AI 🔴 Where DOD is lagging (AI, autonomy, EW) and what surprises are buried in the latest bill (F-35 cuts?!) 🔴 How startups should position themselves to win contracts 🔴 Where primes will dominate vs. where new entrants can thrive 🔴 What SPEED and FoRGED Acts mean for acquisition reform (spoiler: goodbye to some arcane accounting standards) 🔴 Why DoD “buying as a service” might finally stick Whether you're a founder, investor, or policymaker—this episode’s for you. It’s a masterclass in how national security budgets translate into startup opportunity. As always, please let us know your thoughts, and please reach out if you or anyone you know is building in the national security domain. Keywords: Defense budget,NDAA, Appropriations Act, President's budget request, Big Beautiful Bill,defense spending, startups, commercial technology, unmanned systems, AI, cybersecurity,space technology, defense acquisitions, venture capital, dual-use technology. Chapters: Introduction to Defense Budgeting and Startups Understanding the Defense Bill Emerging Technologies: Space, AI, and Unmanned Systems Challenges and Opportunities for Startups Navigating the Defense Acquisition Landscape The Debate on Defense vs. Dual-Use Startups The Role of Space in National Security Innovations in Defense Acquisition Policies Impact of the Forge and Speed Acts Executive Orders and Their Implications Investment Thesis in Defense Technology

    51 min

  7. JUL 9

    Geopolitical Briefing: The Israel–Iran Conflict with VADM Kevin “Kid” Donegan (Ret.)

    This episode of the Mission Matters podcast features a conversation between Shield Capital Managing Partner Philip Bilden and Vice Admiral Kevin “Kid” Donegan. This episode covers everything from: The role of cutting edge technology like cybersecurity, drones, and AI in the conflict The current state of Iranian proxy forces in the Middle East How the conflict in the Middle East compares to Ukraine And more! Keywords: Middle East, geopolitical briefing, national security, technology in warfare, nuclear program, Iran, US-Israel relations, cyber operations, AI Chapters Introduction to SHIELD Capital and Geopolitical BriefingAdmiral Kevin Donaghan's Background and ExperienceRecent Activities in the Middle EastCommand Responsibilities in Iraq and AfghanistanAssessment of the Recent Conflict and CeasefireIran's Military Capabilities and Regional DynamicsTechnological Advancements in Military OperationsThe Role of Cyber in Modern WarfareLeadership Assessment in Crisis OperationsIran's Nuclear Program and Military StrategyRegime Stability and Prospects for Change in IranUS-Israel Relations and Military CollaborationIran's Global Influence and Terrorism ConcernsGeopolitical Implications for China and RussiaInvestment in AI and Technology by Gulf AlliesThe Future of GPS and Warfare TechnologyCybersecurity Threats from State Actors

    52 min
  8. Obviant: Building the Decision Edge for Defense Acquisition

    JUN 25

    Obviant: Building the Decision Edge for Defense Acquisition

    In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, David and I speak with Brendan Karp, the CEO of Obviant, a startup building a government market intelligence platform. In this episode, we discuss: How Obviant is building the “source of truth” for DoD budget, contract, and program data—replacing PDFs and spreadsheets with structured, searchable intelligence and providing its customers with a decision edge The painful reality of legacy DoD software systems like ABIDES and DTS, and why commercial technology should be powering national security workflows How the DoD is rewriting acquisition playbooks—embracing OTAs, CSOs, and the software acquisition pathway to bring in non-traditionals faster And more… Keywords: Governmentprocurement, national security, commercial technology, defense budget, AIplatform, data integration, acquisition challenges, government contracts, technologytransition, procurement data, innovation programs, defense industry, softwareacquisition pathway, commercial solutions openings, other transactionauthorities. Chapters Understanding Obviant and Its Mission The State of DOD Contracting Tools Recent Changes in Acquisitions and Contracting Rewriting the FAR: A New Approach Innovative Contracting Mechanisms Success Stories and Cultural Shifts Executive Orders and Their Impact Understanding Customer Needs and Data Challenges The Role of Obviant in Data Integration Navigating the Acquisition Process Maintaining Data Accuracy and Relevance Unlocking Insights for the DOD Success Stories and Customer Impact Advice for Startups in National Security

    52 min

  9. MAY 23

    Unstructured: Building the Infrastructure to Win the AI Race

    In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, Akhil and Maggie speak with Brian Raymond, the CEO of Unstructured, a startup building the future of data tooling for generative AI, transforming unstructured data into structured data that can be used by AI models. Episode overview: Brian Raymond’s journey from the CIA and National Security Council to building Unstructured, an AI infrastructure startup. The “unsexy” data and infrastructure challenge behind LLMs and agents — from PDFs and XML to chunked JSON. How SOCOM, the Air Force, and the Army are leading the way in practical GenAI deployment What commercial enterprises like Nestlé are doing with agents today — and what the DoD can learn from them A tactical roadmap for AI adoption in national security — from policy fixes to compute access to trust-building And much more Keywords: AI, National Security, DoD, Infrastructure, Generative AI, Adoption, Challenges, Use Cases, Trust, Technology, Department of Defense, AI technology, open source, trust building, government initiatives, experimentation, deployment challenges, dual-use technology, AI infrastructure, future of AI Key Themes Navigating AI in National SecurityThe Evolution of AI in the DoDChallenges of AI Infrastructure in DefenseSuccess Stories in AI AdoptionBuilding AI Applications for GovernmentTrust and Results in DoD AI SolutionsThe Future of AI in National Security

    58 min

  10. MAY 1

    Autonomous Cyber: Building the AI Platform for Offensive Cybersecurity

    In this episode, Patrick O'Brien and Bohdan Volyanyuk, the founders of Autonomous Cyber discuss the evolution of cyber operations, the integration of AI in cybersecurity, and the challenges faced in modern warfare. They explore the concept of dual-use technology, the significance of the fifth domain in conflict, and the impact of generative AI on both offensive and defensive strategies. The conversation highlights the importance of upskilling cyber professionals and the innovative approaches being taken to enhance cybersecurity capabilities. In this conversation, Patrick and Bohdan discuss the rapid evolution of AI models in cybersecurity, the importance of user experience, and the challenges of building trust within government technology. They emphasize the need for continuous innovation and adaptation in a fast-paced environment, while also addressing the significance of integrating workflows and overcoming adoption hurdles. The discussion highlights the value of user feedback and the importance of building strong relationships with clients in the national security sector. We discuss: The Emergence of Autonomous Cyber Operations The Role of AI in Cybersecurity Understanding Penetration Testing Dual Use Technology in Cyber Operations The Fifth Domain in Modern Warfare Challenges in Cyber Operations The Impact of Generative AI on Cybersecurity Defending Against Cyber Threats Building Innovative Cybersecurity Technology Innovations in Cybersecurity Partnerships Building Tools for Cybersecurity User Experience and Future Vision Building Trust in Government Technology Integrating Workflows for Efficiency Overcoming Adoption Challenges Surprises in the Startup Journey Identifying Team Strengths Recruiting for the Future Controversial Takes on Cybersecurity Advice for Startups in National Security Keywords: AutonomousCyber, AI native platform, cyber operations, large language models, penetration testing, fifth domain, national security, offensive cybersecurity, vulnerability discovery, operationalization, dual use technology, human-AI collaboration, cybersecurity challenges, government customer, cyber workforce.

    57 min

  11. MAR 20

    Distributed Spectrum: Building the Future of AI and Electronic Warfare

    Alex Wulff, Ben Harpe, and Isaac Struhl are the founders of Distributed Spectrum, a New York City based startup using machine learning, edge processing, and off the shelf hardware to provide a comprehensive, real-time view of the radiofrequency (RF) environment to help warfighters manage electronic warfare.In this episode we discuss:- The Modern Battlefield and Electronic Warfare- The Origin Story of Distributed Spectrum- Understanding Electronic Warfare- The Evolution of Electronic Warfare Technology- Customer Insights and Product Development- First Customer Experience and Product Validation- Ease of Use in Electronic Warfare Tools- Future of RF Sensing and Technology Evolution- Challenges and Opportunities in the National Security Market- Building Trust and Relationships with National Security Customers- Navigating the Unclassified Space- Innovations in RF Technology- The New York Advantage- Balancing Performance and Efficiency- Integrating with Legacy Systems- Building a Diverse Team for Success in National Security- Surprises and Challenges in the Journey- Advice for Future Founders in National Security

    43 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

The Mission Matters podcast from Shield Capital explores the intersection of technology, national security, and startups through in-depth conversations with early-stage founders and government technologists. Each episode reveals the opportunities, technical challenges, and innovations shaping the future of national security, offering insights from those on the front lines of technological evolution and national defense.

Information

  • Creator
    Shield Capital
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Shield Capital
  • Show Website
    Mission Matters Podcast

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