Episodes

  • Ep 80: Lee Rosen, CEO, ThinkOrbital - GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley
    Apr 3 2026
    How to Build Big Infrastructure in Space: Insights from Lee Rosen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkorbital Website: https://thinkorbital.com/ Email: marketing@thinkorbital.com Building infrastructure in space presents unique challenges, but it's essential for the future of the new space economy. In this post, we'll explore insights from Lee Rosen, co-founder and CEO of Think Orbital, as he discusses his journey from the U.S. Air Force to SpaceX, and how those experiences shaped his vision for creating infrastructure in outer space. About Lee Rosen Lee Rosen is the co-founder and CEO of Think Orbital, with an impressive background in the aerospace industry, including 23 years of service in the United States Air Force as an engineer and space operator. He played key roles at SpaceX, helping to establish their launch capabilities and innovate in the field of space technology. The Decision to Leave the Air Force Lee's journey began with a long career in the military, culminating in a pivotal moment when he escorted President Obama during a visit to SpaceX. This experience not only introduced him to Elon Musk but also opened his eyes to the potential of commercial space capabilities. He realized that the landscape was changing, and it was an opportune time to take risks and explore new avenues in the aerospace sector. Key Insights from Lee's Experience *Meeting Elon Musk:* Lee's first encounter with Musk was eye-opening. Musk's vision and unconventional thinking challenged the norms of the aerospace industry. Lee was particularly struck by Musk's questions regarding launch turnaround times and reusability, which led to revolutionary changes in space flight. The Evolution of the Space Market The space market has evolved dramatically since Lee's time at SpaceX. In the past, the U.S. relied heavily on foreign partnerships for space capabilities. Today, thanks to companies like SpaceX, launching satellites has become more accessible and affordable. Lee emphasizes that this change has spurred innovation and allowed new players, like Think Orbital, to emerge in the space industry. The Importance of Infrastructure *Building Larger Structures:* Think Orbital focuses on developing the tools necessary to construct larger infrastructure in space. This includes creating technologies like in-space welding capabilities, which are essential for assembling larger structures beyond Earth. Think Orbital's Mission Think Orbital was founded to address the challenges of building infrastructure in space. Their mission is to create tools and technologies that allow for larger construction projects in outer space. Lee discusses their focus on in-space welding technology, which is designed to handle the unique conditions of space, including vacuum environments. Key Takeaways *Embrace Innovation:* The aerospace industry is changing rapidly; embracing innovative technologies and challenging existing norms is crucial for success.*Build for the Future:* The need for larger infrastructure in space is evident, and companies like Think Orbital are leading the way in developing solutions to address these challenges.*Collaboration is Key:* Collaborating with talented individuals and fostering a culture of ownership among team members can drive success in the startup environment. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about our Defense market intelligence solutions at GovDiscovery AI (https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/). To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/
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    41 mins
  • Ep 79 Victor Vigliotti, Director, U.S. Space Force Front Door
    Mar 19 2026

    In this episode, Victor Vigliotti, Director of the Space Force Front Door, discusses how the US Space Force is transforming its knowledge management and vendor engagement processes. He shares insights into the innovative use of commercial systems like Salesforce to streamline vendor relationships, improve transparency, and enhance strategic matchmaking across government and industry.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

    00:39 The State of Knowledge Management in Space Force

    01:17 Current Processes and Shortfalls in Knowledge Sharing

    02:15 Adoption of Commercial CRM Systems like Salesforce

    04:05 The Salesforce Custom Relationship Management System

    05:10 Matching Capabilities to Space Force Needs

    07:39 Scaling the Front Door System Internally

    08:09 Internal Government Conversations and Requirements

    09:34 Proactive Engagement and Vendor Relationship Building

    11:18 Human and AI Roles in Matchmaking Automation

    13:20 Future Automation and Data Validation with AI/ML

    15:09 Engaging Defense Tech Companies and Industry Outreach

    18:47 Success Stories and Industry Impact

    23:35 Upcoming Developments and System Enhancements

    29:50 Scaling the Front Door to NATO and Beyond

    32:43 How Companies Can Engage with Space Force Front Door

    36:09 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

    USSF Front Door Website:

    https://sscfrontdoor.experience.crmforce.mil/SSCFrontDoor/s/

    LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn, or visit:

    https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/

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    36 mins
  • Ep 78 Col. John Oliver - U.S. Army Strategic Capital Initiative
    Mar 11 2026

    In this episode, Colonel John Oliver discusses the U.S. Army Strategic Capital Initiatives, exploring innovative partnerships with private capital and tech companies to modernize the industrial base and enhance military readiness. He discusses the recent U.S. Army Enterprise Strategic Capital Partnership RFI linked here: https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/f825eabd94884cc3b534bfde1927ccd9/view

    Col. John Oliver Bio:

    Colonel John Oliver currently serves as the Imitative Groups Chief, for the Deputy Under Secretary of the Army. He was commissioned as an Infantry Officer from the United States Military Academy in 2006 and has graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic Course, the Maneuver Captain's Career Course, Airborne School, Air Assault School, Ranger School, Jumpmaster School, the Command and General Staff College, and Army War College.

    Prior to rejoining the DUSA's office, Colonel Oliver was assigned to the Headquarters, Department of the Army in the G-8, where he was the Program Priorities and Planning Division chief. Before that, John served in the G-3, where he served as the Total Army Analysis lead for Force Structure among other roles. His previous Force Management assignments include Lead Budget Analyst for the Equipping PEG POM Build, Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General of Army Futures Command, Chief of Force Management for the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), HQDA G-8 Stryker Staff Synchronization Officer, and Executive Officer for the Director, Joint and Integration.

    His prior Infantry assignments include serving as Rifle Company Commander and HHC Commander in the 1-25 SBCT, and Rifle Platoon Leader in the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment. COL Oliver's overseas service includes deployments in support of OIF (x1) and OEF (x2).

    Colonel Oliver holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Campaign Medals, the Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Army Staff Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

    Key topics: The purpose and goals of the Strategic Capital Initiative Engagement with non-traditional industry partners and tech companies Innovative models for public-private partnerships in defense Addressing risks and misconceptions in military modernization

    LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about our BD solutions at www.govdiscoveryai.com. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. He'll reply!

    https://www.govdiscoveryai.com

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    23 mins
  • Ep. 77 Maj. Paul Hanneman - Building Software for the Solider
    Mar 6 2026

    # How to Achieve Agnostic Technology in Defense: Insights from Major Paul Hanneman Learn how to implement agnostic technology in defense.

    Major Paul Hanneman shares insights on user empathy and collaboration for effective solutions. In the rapidly evolving landscape of defense technology, a significant question looms: how can we ensure that the systems we use are truly agnostic?

    In this episode, we'll dive into the insights shared by U.S. Army Major Paul Hanneman, a Digital Transformation Specialist, during his recent conversation on the GovDiscovery AI Podcast. With over 21 years of experience from special forces to digital transformation, Major Hanneman offers a unique perspective on achieving effective technology integration in defense.

    LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com

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    31 mins
  • Ep. 76: General Matthew "Jerry" Glavy (ret.) - U.S. Cyber Force Generation
    Feb 11 2026

    Summary:

    In this episode of the GovDiscovery AI podcast, General Matthew Glavy discusses the critical need for a dedicated Cyber Force in the U.S. military, emphasizing the challenges posed by adversaries like China. He outlines the importance of logistics, structure, and the lessons learned from allies and U.S. Cyber Command. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in cybersecurity, the current status of discussions around the Cyber Force, and the significance of open source intelligence. General Glavy shares insights on the defense industrial base's innovation and the lessons learned from Ukraine's defense strategy, concluding with a call for continuous improvement and adaptation in the face of evolving threats.

    Keywords:

    Cyber Force, AI, Cyber Command, Defense Innovation, Open Source Intelligence, National Security, Military Strategy, Ukraine Defense, Cybersecurity, Technology in Defense

    Links:

    https://www.csis.org/programs/strategic-technologies-program/projects/commission-us-cyber-force-generation

    https://govdiscoveryai.com/

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    41 mins
  • Ep. 75: Michael Robbins, AUVSI President & CEO: Drones and the future of warfare
    Jan 29 2026

    In this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast, Mike Shanley interviews Michael Robbins, President and CEO of AUVSI, discussing the current state and future of the US defense uncrewed market. They explore the challenges of technology integration, manufacturing capabilities, critical minerals, battery technology, cybersecurity, and the global dynamics of the drone market. Robbins emphasizes the importance of innovation, the lessons learned from Ukraine's defense strategies, and the opportunities for new entrants in the market. He also highlights AUVSI's role in advocating for the industry and the upcoming events that will shape the future of uncrewed systems.

    Learn more about AUVSI here:

    https://www.auvsi.org/

    Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn how we support clients to identify more opportunities, earlier in the pipeline for the US Defense market. To connect with our team directly message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn or submit a request at www.govdiscoveryai.com. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/

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    34 mins
  • Ep. 74: Michael Cadenazzi, Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy
    Jan 20 2026

    Summary

    In this episode of the GovDiscovery AI podcast, host Mike Shanley interviews Michael Catanasi, the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial-Based Policy. Catanasi discusses his recent experiences at the Honolulu Defense Forum, where he engaged with various military and international partners to address the challenges and opportunities in maintaining and growing the U.S. Defense Industrial Base, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. He emphasizes the importance of developing skilled labor and advanced manufacturing capabilities in Hawaii, which are crucial for supporting U.S. military operations in the Pacific.

    Guest Bio: The Honorable Michael Cadenazzi was sworn in as the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy (ASD(IBP)) on September 23, 2025. In this role, he is the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment on industrial base policies and leads the Department of War's efforts to develop and maintain the U.S. defense industrial base to ensure a secure supply of materials critical to national security.  

    Over the past two decades, Mr. Cadenazzi has served as a serial entrepreneur and consultant with experience in managing and addressing challenging issues across the aerospace & defense sector. He has launched multiple defense industry services and technology start-ups across the signals intelligence, program analysis, data analytics, and market assessment and strategy sectors, and executed two successful transfers of business ownership. His extensive sector experience includes work from the space to undersea domains and from aircraft and munitions to armor, weapons, ships, and services. His clients have included domestic and international firms from large prime contractors to all levels in the supply chain. His direct experience spans strategy, mergers & acquisitions, operations, supply chain and organizational transformation.

    Prior to his civilian career, Mr. Cadenazzi served for ten years as an active-duty U.S. Navy cryptologic warfare officer. He completed the Cryptologic Division Office Course at Corry Station in Pensacola Florida before his first tour at Naval Communications & Telecommunications Area Master Station (NCTAMS) WESTPAC in Agana, Guam. Following graduate education, he was assigned to the staff of Commander, U.S. Navy SIXTH Fleet in Gaeta Italy. He completed his military service on the staff of U.S. Naval Forces Europe in London, the United Kingdom.

    Mr. Cadenazzi holds a bachelor's degree in engineering from Tulane University and a master's degree in electrical engineering with an emphasis on RF communications and signals intelligence from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. He was commissioned an ensign in 1995 through the Tulane Naval Reserve Officer Corps (NROTC) program.

    Learn more at BusinessDefense.gov

    LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about our Defense business intelligence solutions by visiting www.govdiscoveryai.com. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/

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    40 mins
  • Ep. 73 U.S. Army & Innovation with Dr. Matthew Willis, Army FUZE
    Dec 22 2025

    Summary:

    In this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast, Dr. Matt Willis, director of the Army FUZE Program, discusses the historical challenges the Army has faced in innovation and how the Army FUZE Program aims to address these issues. The conversation covers the importance of risk tolerance, the integration of soldier feedback in the development process, and the role of venture capital in supporting Army innovation. Dr. Willis also highlights current focus areas for funding and eligibility criteria for companies looking to engage with the Army FUZE Program.

    Guest Bio:

    Dr. Matt Willis serves as the Director of Army FUZE, leading the Army's portfolio of private sector engagements through prize competitions (xTech), the Army Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, the Technology Maturation Initiative (TMI) program, and the Manufacturing Technology (ManTech) program, comprising over $750 million in annual research and development investments. Previously, Dr. Willis served as the Army Director for Laboratory Management at the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT)) and held various positions across the Army and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Dr. Willis earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University and both a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

    Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/

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    33 mins