Are rules the biggest barrier to government procurement?
In this replay episode, Jonathan Mostowski, a trailblazer in government procurement and co-author of the TechFAR Handbook, unpacks the truth about “hacking” bureaucracy in government contracting and how agile acquisition, strategic contracting, and responsible risk-taking can transform procurement into a driver of innovation.
He also shares insights on creating culture change through contracting, his experiences authoring the TechFAR Handbook, navigating the pitfalls of SBIR, and tackling the dreaded “Valley of Death”.
Learn why contracting should be a business advisory role, not just compliance, and how funding models can better reward innovation.
Tune in now for a refreshing conversation on defense procurement!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:00) Meet Jonathan Mostowski
(03:10) What is a Scaled Agile Framework?
(04:08) Origins and intent of the TechFar Handbook
(07:55) The biggest challenge contractors face
(10:37) Why Jonathan doesn’t “hack” bureaucracy?
(14:07) The culture change needed in contracting
(15:53) Jonathan’s writing process
(17:00) The purpose of Jonathan’s book Leading Agile Acquisitions
(19:46) What would Jonathan change if he were to be a king for a day?
(22:44) How impact–not speed—should drive incentives
(26:30) Are SBIRs sustainable?
(34:14) The reality behind the Valley of Death
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guests:
💥Follow Jonathan Mostowski on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmost/
💥Grab a copy of his book Leading Agile Acquisitions: https://www.agileacquisitions.com/product-page/leading-agile-acquisitions
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
What if the biggest barrier to innovation in government contracting isn’t bureaucracy–but mindset?
In this replay episode, Ryan Connell sits down with Major General Alice Treviño, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Contracting, to discuss how the Air Force is rethinking procurement with digital tools, leadership strategies, and streamlined processes.
With over 32 years of experience, Major General Treviño shares how to lead effectively in acquisitions, delegate strategically, and foster innovation within a structured system.
She highlights why patience, positivity, courage, and curiosity are essential for driving real change in contracting.
From AI-powered procurement to leadership tactics, this episode is packed with insights.
Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:56) Major General Treviño’s background and journey in contracting
(07:09) How to delegate authority in high-visibility projects
(10:10) The critical role of contracting in mission success
(13:15) A day in the life of a Deputy Assistant Secretary for Contracting
(19:55) Building and scaling tools across the Air Force
(28:56) Advice on change agency for junior members in the Air Force
(35:28) Final thoughts on leadership, positivity, and mentorship
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guests:
💥Follow Major General Alice Treviño on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicetrevinoali/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Military procurement is known for its slow, bureaucratic processes, but what if it didn’t have to be?
In this week’s episode, Ryan Connell sits down with Major General Edward Vaughan to talk about how the Joint Rapid Acquisition Cell (JRAC) redefines how warfighters get the tools they need—fast.
With over 40 years of military experience, Major General Vaughan shares his perspectives on balancing speed and perfection in defense acquisitions.
He walks us through how JRAC accelerates the procurement process, the role of Joint Urgent Operational Needs (JUONs), and how AI and digital tools are reshaping decision-making in defense.
Tune in to learn how the Department of Defense is cutting through bureaucracy to boost innovation and efficiency in modern warfare.
Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:53) Major General Vaughan’s background and career journey
(02:24) What JRAC does and how it supports warfighters
(06:13) How urgent needs get validated and funded
(08:45) Why speed matters more than perfection in urgent military acquisitions
(13:46) The role of iteration and AI in military procurement
(17:17) How small businesses and defense startups contribute to rapid innovation
(20:02) The barriers to fast-tracking military technology
(22:30) How JRAC facilitates funding without direct acquisition
(32:53) Final thoughts
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Major General Edward Vaughan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/relentless/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Would you trust AI to review your proposals?
AI is now streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and reducing bureaucratic roadblocks. Yet, while 80% of industry professionals use AI to draft proposals, almost none are comfortable with AI evaluating them.
In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, host Ryan Connell lets ChatGPT take the interviewer’s seat for a deep dive into AI’s growing role in defense acquisitions.
They unpack how AI enhances proposal evaluation, document generation, and market research—all while keeping human oversight in check.
Ryan also shares his insights about the industry’s double standard on AI, the biggest barriers to AI adoption, and why policies must evolve to keep up with AI-driven solutions.
If you’re curious about how AI is reshaping government contracting, this episode is a must-listen.
Let’s jump right in!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:42) Ryan Connell’s DoD acquisition journey
(01:49) Why AI is critical in modern defense contracting
(04:01) Challenges in AI adoption
(04:45) The truth about AI proposal evaluation
(06:11) AI’s evolving role in government acquisition
(09:41) Long-term AI adoption in DoD
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Approximately 99.5% of available data is unclassified. Yet, intelligence agencies often focus on the 0.5% that is classified. How can the U.S. government bridge this intelligence gap?
In this week’s episode, Ryan Connell speaks with Sammy Semwangu, CEO of Bazze, about how his startup is transforming intelligence with commercial data solutions.
With over a decade of national security experience, Sammy shares his early entrepreneurial challenges and how he founded Bazze in 2019 to provide an efficient data query model for defense intelligence agencies.
Today, we dive into Bazze’s “super API”, the balance between privacy and security, and how shifting intelligence incentives can help close critical intelligence gaps using both classified and unclassified data.
Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:50) Sammy Semwangu’s entrepreneurial journey and lessons learned
(04:44) How Bazze’s platform queries commercial data
(08:38) Challenges with the SBIR process and contracting
(18:29) The future of intelligence sharing in government
(22:47) Privacy and ethical concerns with data access
(26:54) Incentivizing intel gaps with classified or unclassified data
(29:59) The efficiency of unclassified data aggregation
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Sammy Semwangu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/semwangu/
💥Visit Bazze for more information: https://bazze.io/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Ever wonder why critical military resources get lost in the“fog of war”?
In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, Ryan Connell sits down with Beowulf’s founders, Mark Hammonds and Ryan Perez, to discuss how Bulldog—a logistic and planning tool—was developed to streamline military logistics.
Drawing from their firsthand experiences in Ukraine, they discuss how real-time feedback from soldiers transformed Bulldog into a game-changing tool for efficiency, accountability, and survivability on the frontlines.
They also dive into the evolving role of AI in software engineering, the lessons they learned while navigating U.S. government contracting, and Beowulf’s partnership with Carahsoft to deploy their solution.
If you’re interested in technology’s role in defense or the journey of a startup tackling massive logistical problems, this episode is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:10) The story behind Beowulf’s creation
(05:09) Initial problem identification in Ukraine’s military logistics
(11:16) Real-world impact of poor inventory management
(14:47) Progress and challenges with scaling Bulldog
(18:28) Regulatory hurdles for small businesses contracting with the government
(21:30) AI’s evolving role in software engineering
(25:54) Importance of early, direct feedback from users
(27:46) How to get actionable feedback from software pilots
(30:19) Episode wrap-up
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here:https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates:https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guests:
💥Follow Mark Hammonds on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhammonds/
💥Follow Ryan Perez on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-perez1/
💥Visit Beowulf for more information:https://beowulfgroup.com/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Balancing defense and commercial markets can be daunting, but today’s guest shares how the dual-use readiness model makes it easier for startups to thrive in both worlds.
In this week’s episode, Ryan Connell speaks with Gene Keselman, Director of Mission Innovation Experimentation at MIT.
Gene shares how creating a shared language between startups and defense organizations, along with integrating AI tools into readiness models, can turn complex systems into practicable strategies.
You’ll also hear about MIT’s Pro Ventures studio, the challenges startups face in these dual-use markets and why building a stronger global defense ecosystem is more critical than ever.
Tune in to learn how MIT is shaping the future of defense innovation.
Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:49) Meet Gene Keselman and his work at MIT
(06:01) Defining the dual-use readiness model
(08:47) The importance of shared language in defense startups
(13:00) AI integration into readiness models
(16:04) Commercial vs. DoD-focused tech companies
(18:53) Challenges of dual-use for startups
(23:49) Dual-use as a strategy, not a category
(25:54) The role of non-dilutive funding
(28:18) MIT’s Proto Ventures studio
(34:29) Strengthening global security
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Gene Keselman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genekeselman/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
What if the DoD could be as agile as a tech startup?
In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, Ryan Connell chats with Warren Katz, chairman of the Alliance for Commercial Technology in Government, to explore the challenges and inefficiencies in the DoD’s acquisition processes.
They discuss promising reforms, including the Restoring Freedom’s Forge Act, and compare Ukraine’s rapid adoption of commercial technologies. Warren explains why aligning incentives and creating a culture of rapid innovation is key to fixing DoD’s procurement challenges.
Additionally, Warren discusses the role of venture capitalists in defense innovation and real-world examples of success and failure in acquisition reform.
Tune in now and discover how the DoD can become an agile, innovation-driven organization.
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:09) Warren Katz's advocacy for reform
(07:19) The impact of DoD’s outdated requirements process
(12:03) Lessons from Ukraine’s rapid innovation
(18:09) The Restoring Freedom’s Forge Act
(25:37) Reforming DoD incentives for innovation
(33:13) Success stories and missed opportunities
(36:49) Call for leadership changes in the Pentagon
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Warren Katz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warrenkatz/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
The real challenge for the Department of Defense (DoD) isn’t coming up with innovations. The DoD has a long history of celebrated innovators and has invested billions of dollars in research and development. So, what’s holding back these innovations?
In this episode of Defense Mavericks, Ryan Connell speaks with Josh Marcuse, former Defense Innovation Board leader and now with Google Public Sector, to explore this issue. Josh explains the definition of innovation and why the DoD’s main hurdle isn’t creating new ideas but implementing them.
They discuss the role of culture in risk tolerance, how platforms like cloud computing drive AI adoption, and the importance of supporting entrepreneurial talent within the organization.
Tune in now to learn how to drive change and encourage the adoption of innovation.
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:37) From Pentagon to Google: Josh Marcuse’s career transition
(03:40) Josh Marcuse’s definition of innovation
(05:51) The innovation adoption curve explained
(08:56) Importance of focusing on early adopters over laggards
(28:23) Rethinking risk and its role in innovation adoption
(38:32) Challenging conventional wisdom through talent management
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Josh Marcuse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamarcuse
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Have you ever wondered how AI and robotics are transforming the military?
This week, Ryan Connell speaks with Cathleen Rush, Deputy of the Office of ARSOF Autonomy–a newly formed office within the U.S. Army Special Operations Forces–about the intersection of technology and military operations.
Cathleen shares her journey from active-duty engineer to her leadership role in Autonomy, where she combines AI, robotics, and science to enhance military efficiency.
In this episode, they dive into the SOF Dev initiative, which trains soldiers to use and develop advanced tech while fulfilling their operational roles.
Learn how generative AI is revolutionizing decision-making, the importance of upskilling the military workforce, and the challenges of technology adoption in a military context.
Tune in now and see how AI is shaping the future of military operations.
Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:05) Cathleen Rush’s role in the U.S. Army
(04:01) Overview of the Office of ARSOF Autonomy
(06:57) Upskilling military workforce through the SOF Dev initiative
(08:29) Balancing operational and technical roles in the military
(12:39) Soldiers as co-developers of tech
(19:47) Building soldier-technologists
(23:17) Challenges of technology adoption in the military
(25:34) Generative AI’s role in military operations
(28:44) Importance of cross-functional teams and partnerships
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Cathleen Rush on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-rush/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
What does it take to build a thriving startup in defense technology?
In the world of startups, chaos is constant. But in the defense sector? It’s chaos with billion-dollar stakes.
In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, Matthew Steckman, Chief Revenue Officer at Anduril Industries, reveals how defense startups like theirs survive and thrive. From predicting government demands to integrating cutting-edge technology like generative AI, success isn’t just about innovation–it’s about grit.
Matthew breaks down what makes defense startups unique and reveals the three critical factors for staying ahead in this fiercely competitive space.
You’ll also learn why modeling and simulation are indispensable for testing emerging technologies at scale and how the future depends on the velocity of integrating and replacing system components.
Ready to hear how startups are reshaping the future of defense?
Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:14) The realities of startup life in defense
(04:45) Capital allocation and risk in defense startups
(06:32) 3 key factors for defense tech success
(10:42) Overcoming challenges in defense tech startups
(12:38) Generative AI’s role in defense innovation
(16:36) Modeling and simulation for battlefield readiness
(19:57) Solving the system-level problem of kill chain integration
(23:29) Why grit matters more than qualifications in hiring
(28:40) Advice for aspiring defense startup founders
(31:51) Acquisition advice for small companies
(33:05) How Anduril drives competition in defense
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guest:
💥Follow Matthew Steckman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-steckman-4a23a8b0/
💥Visit Anduril Industries for more information: https://www.anduril.com/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Are rigid acquisition processes slowing down your innovative solutions? Tradewinds is here to change that.
This week on Defense Mavericks, I’m joined by Stephanie Wilson, Kristina Botelho, and Tony Kwag at this year’s NCMA Conference to explore how Tradewinds is revolutionizing AI and digital solution procurement for government agencies.
With flexible contracting options and open, candid collaboration, Tradewinds is simplifying the path for both vendors and buyers.
Learn how a TRL-agnostic approach and pitch videos are opening the door for small businesses and experimental technologies. We also tackle the challenges and successes of modernizing acquisition processes–from ATO reciprocity to rapid contract awards.
Don’t miss this insightful conversation and find out how Tradewinds can help your organization innovate faster.
Tune in now!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:12) What is Tradewinds?
(07:20) Submission process and pitch-video specifics
(13:43) Key performance indicators and metrics for success
(17:20) Traditional vs. non-traditional acquisition pathways
(21:48) From prototype to production contracts
(24:58) Challenges of low TRL technologies
(31:24) Managing video libraries and differentiating solutions
(36:32) Government engagement and educational efforts
(44:29) The benefits of relational contracting
(51:59) Exploring different contract types
(56:06) Addressing misconceptions and expanding adoption across agencies
(01:04:14) OT vs. FAR-base contracts
(01:08:40) Tradewinds program nuances for international sellers and buyers and non-DoD
(01:13:17) Final thoughts
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guests:
💥Follow Stephanie Wilson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-wilson-790902237/
💥Follow Kristina Botelho on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-botelho/
💥Follow Tony Kwag on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonykwag/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Did you know the right network could be the DoD’s most powerful tool?
In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, we’re joined by Jesse Levin, Executive Director of the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum (DEF); Jay Long, COO and Founder of Parlay; and Brad Halsey, CEO of Building Momentum.
These innovators dive into the importance of leveraging networks–both formal and informal–as a strategic advantage in military and entrepreneurial spheres.
We explore how networks have become a weapon system both in national security and business. Plus, we dive into the evolution of military strategies, the power of human capital, and the role of decentralized decision-making.
Tune in now to learn how to turn your network into a weapon!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:38) Why networking is crucial for success
(05:28) Challenges in building effective networks
(09:33) Network building is teachable
(14:50) Leveraging talent for national innovation
(21:39) The Power of Trap Capacity explained
(22:57) Breaking military talent stereotypes
(29:39) Tackling dual-use technology challenges
(35:40) Embracing the military’s entrepreneurial spirit
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with today’s guests:
💥Follow Jay Long on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayllong/
💥Follow Jesse Levin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-levin/
💥Follow Brad Halsey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-halsey-74109933/
—
Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
DISCLAIMER: The views reflected are not a representation of an official position of the Department of Defense.
Imagine a Marine stranded on an island, needing a critical part to continue their mission. What if that essential part could be produced on the spot?
In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, we sit down with Matt Pine, Innovation Officer for the U.S. Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune, to explore how additive manufacturing (AM) is revolutionizing military logistics.
Matt shares how point-of-need production cut supply chain delays in half, illustrated by a groundbreaking success story aboard the USS Somerset.
We also discuss the challenges of integrating AM into military systems, how these innovations offer significant cost savings and faster part delivery, and more.
Tune in now to learn how AM is shaping the future of defense logistics.
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:59) Meet Matt Pine and his experience in the Marine Corps
(02:28) The Blue List for drones
(03:13) Benchy’s role in 3D printing
(06:39) A success story on additive manufacturing (AM) deployment
(08:57) Importance of tech data for AM adoption
(10:22) Are AM innovations cost-effective?
(13:57) What does the future look like for AM?
(15:53) Future vision for military AM integration
(19:47) Episode wrap-up
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with Matt:
💥Follow Matt on Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-pine-123755b8/
💥Check out the official website of the Marines for more information here
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Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
DISCLAIMER: The views reflected are not a representation of an official position of the Marine Corps, Navy, or the Department of Defense.
With deepfakes and misinformation on the rise, distinguishing truth from lies has never been more challenging.
A recent Harvard paper stated how generative AI, like ChatGPT, is increasingly showing up in academic journals, archives, and repositories. So, how can we fight back against this growing misinformation crisis?
This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Nathan Manzotti, Managing Director of Data Analytics and AI Centers of Excellence at GSA, to explore groundbreaking ideas for combating misinformation using blockchain and AI.
Learn how an AI training program is empowering thousands and how a government-wide AI model repository could transform federal efficiency.
If you’re passionate about the future of technology, truth, and public service, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in now!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:59) Meet Nathan Manzotti and his journey into AI
(04:14) The rise of deepfakes and the misinformation crisis
(06:08) How to combat deepfakes with blockchain technology
(10:12) The role of personal passion in driving government innovation
(15:21) Expansion of AI training program across the federal workforce
(19:18) Building collaborative community platforms for progress
(24:22) GSA’s fee-of-service consulting model
(29:58) Nate’s vision for a government-backed model repository
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with Nathan Manzotti
🔹Follow Nathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanmanzotti/
🔹Harvard’s publication on GPT-fabricated papers: https://misinforeview.hks.harvard.edu/article/gpt-fabricated-scientific-papers-on-google-scholar-key-features-spread-and-implications-for-preempting-evidence-manipulation/
🔹Visit Harvard’s Misinformation Review for more information: https://misinforeview.hks.harvard.edu/
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Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
Can AI help you bid on more government contracts?
In this week’s episode, Ryan Connell sits down with Alex Cohen, an AI expert and founder of GovPro AI.
Alex is on a mission to help small and medium-sized contractors streamline their proposal process. He walks us through how AI tools are transforming how proposals are submitted–making them faster and more compliant. However, Alex is clear about the limitations of AI, too.
If you’re ready to level up your proposal strategy without cutting corners, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in now!
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:49) Meet Alex Cohen and his career journey
(03:21) How Alex started using AI in proposal writing
(07:11) AI’s role in drafting proposals
(08:54) Success rates for AI-generated proposals
(10:45) The limitations of AI in GovCon
(21:19) Predictions for increased AI adoption in GovCon
(23:21) The untapped potential of voice-interactive AI
(28:49) Challenges of integrating secure AI solutions
(32:11) Why human oversight is still necessary
(34:55) Alex’s thoughts on AI-assisted oral presentations
Additional Resources:
👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/
👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/
👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC
👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks
Connect with Alex
🔹Follow Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akcohen/
🔹Visit GovPro AI for more information: https://govpro.ai/
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Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.
Follow us on your favorite streaming platform so you won’t miss an episode!
This week, Ryan Connell is joined by Keith Scheffler from Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to discuss the role that blockchain plays in their manufacturing division. Keith dives into the evolution and broader applications of blockchain technology beyond cryptocurrency, AFRL's approach to addressing technology gaps, the integration of digital tools in modern manufacturing, and the critical interplay of cybersecurity and the supply chain. He also shares insights into the complexities of the defense industrial base and the innovative use of graph theory to predict industry trends and interconnections. Tune in to learn all about how blockchain is transforming the defense industrial base.
TIMESTAMPS:
(1:20) AFRL's Role in Manufacturing
(3:22) How blockchain plays a role in manufacturing
(6:20) Blockchain beyond crypto
(8:54) How blockchain ensures data integrity and security in manufacturing
(13:33) Importance of cybersecurity in defense manufacturing
(17:34) Commodity parts in the defense industry and supply chain considerations
(24:19) Scaling advanced manufacturing across the DoD
(26:48) How to embrace innovation and break from traditional approaches
LINKS:
Follow Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
Follow Keith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-scheffler-a2823920/
AFRL: https://www.afrl.af.mil/
CDAO: https://www.ai.mil/
Tradewinds: https://www.tradewindai.com/
This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Therman Trotman, a.k.a. "Mr. SharePoint," to talk about the powerful ways SharePoint can transform workflows and enhance team efficiency. Therman shares his journey from the Bronx to becoming an expert in SharePoint, diving into his unique take on branding, confidence, and overcoming imposter syndrome. He breaks down practical ways to leverage SharePoint’s full capabilities, discusses the importance of people-first technology, and gives his insights into building a successful career in tech, including how he started SharePoint Helpdesk. Tune in to this fun conversation on SharePoint and self-branding success.
TIMESTAMPS:
(1:09) Therman’s journey to “Mr. SharePoint”
(3:12) Building a personal brand
(6:13) Overcoming imposter syndrome
(9:49) What SharePoint can do today for DoD
(15:04) The power of automation
(17:24) Therman’s “CMD” framework
(20:41) Creating internal sites
(22:51) Making data-driven decisions
(28:49) Therman’s favorite success story
(29:07) Advice on confidence & branding
LINKS:
Follow Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
Follow Therman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therman-trotman-15790b33/
SharePoint Helpdesk: https://thesphelpdesk.com/
Freebie: https://sharepointfreebie.com/
CDAO: https://www.ai.mil/
Tradewinds: https://www.tradewindai.com/
This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Scott Sanders, Chief Growth Officer of Forterra, to talk about the advancements and challenges of integrating autonomous systems in defense and industrial sectors. Scott shares his insights on the deployment of full stack and ground autonomy, balancing human and machine roles, and accounting for the diverse terrains of war zones. He also dives into the financial feasibility and operational reliability of autonomous solutions, the nuances of defense acquisitions in this space, and the importance of balancing cost, safety, and efficiency in both military and industrial applications. Tune in to learn all about the future of autonomy in defense.
TIMESTAMPS:
(0:43) Scott’s journey from Marine Corps to Forterra
(1:25) What is full end-to-end autonomy?
(3:52) How to ensure reliability and safety in autonomous systems
(7:17) Balancing hardware and software in autonomy
(11:37) Pricing strategies for DoD vs. commercial markets
(16:31) The future of autonomy and human roles
(19:10) How to manage risk in autonomous system
(23:51) What are the acquisition strategies in this space?
(28:02) Tip for navigating defense acquisition as a small business
LINKS:
Follow Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
Follow Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottbsanders/
Forterra: https://www.forterra.com/
CDAO: https://www.ai.mil/
Tradewinds: https://www.tradewindai.com/
This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Lori Wade, Chief Data Officer for the Intelligence Community, to talk about the pivotal role of quality data in driving AI and emerging technologies in the IC. Lori shares her insights on data interoperability, public-private collaboration, and the complexities of managing data across the 18 Intelligence Community elements. She also shares her journey implementing the IC Data Strategy, preparing the workforce, and achieving data readiness by 2025. Tune in for a deep dive on the challenges and opportunities the Intelligence Community faces when it comes to data and emerging tech.
TIMESTAMPS:
(1:03) Meet Lori Wade
(4:25) Key challenges in data management
(8:28) How to use Smart Data Questions
(12:31) What is the role of the Chief Data Officer?
(16:33) How AI plays a role in the digital c-suite
(18:51) Managing data reference architecture and quality
(20:47) Why mission reliance is on data
(23:26) Creating end-to-end data management plans
(29:19) What does the future of data in the IC look like?
LINKS:
Follow Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/
Follow Lori: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-wade-212551221/
CDAO: https://www.ai.mil/
Tradewinds: https://www.tradewindai.com/