Episode 63. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt chats with Rich Julien, Partner at BOKA Group Holdings LLP, a global investment group focused on identifying, vetting, funding and enabling deep tech companies. Together, Tyler and Rich dive into how the AUKUS alliance is reshaping the defense and security sectors and Rich breaks down the importance of strategic partnerships and investments for scaling up innovative technologies worldwide. He also explains how the AUKUS framework is boosting collaboration between the US, UK, and Australia, driving advancements in technology and infrastructure that are vital for national security.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Exploring the strategic impact of AUKUS on global security investments.
• The crucial role of partnerships in the defense investment scene.
• A look at dual-use technology and why it matters for both defense and civilian use.
• Strategies for growth-stage companies to tap into AUKUS for growth and innovation.

Tune in to understand more about how strategic investments and partnerships are crafting the future of global security and defense industries.

Connect with Rich:

• LinkedIn: Rich Julien

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 62. How can companies, large or small, make data-driven decisions, like determining the direction of a product roadmap or prioritizing features for the next sprint, when their data is trapped in silos? In this episode, Tyler Sweatt sits down with Bryan Beal from Snowflake to explore the challenges and opportunities of data democratization in the defense industry and beyond.

With Bryan's extensive journey from network engineering at Sprint to leading Global Field CTO operations at Snowflake, he’s able to share thoughtful insights on the importance of centralizing data, overcoming political and cultural barriers, and the critical balance between security and accessibility so companies are able to make informed decisions, faster.

Tune in to learn how organizations, both large and small, can harness their data effectively, the evolving role of AI in decision-making, and the future of data-driven defense strategies.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• The challenges of centralizing and accessing data in defense
• Overcoming political and cultural barriers to data democratization
• The importance of roles-based access control in securing data
• Balancing operational excellence with innovation in defense tech
• Strategies for leveraging AI to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency

Connect with Bryan:

• LinkedIn: Bryan Beal

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 61. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt sits down with Shyam Sankar, an 18-year veteran at Palantir and a leading figure in software-defined production for both commercial and government sectors. They delve into the transformative power of software in modern defense, examining how software literacy and innovative procurement strategies can redefine the battlefield. Shyam shares insights on the cultural roots of America's software dominance, the crucial role of leadership in driving defense innovation, and the importance of integrating commercial software practices into the defense industry. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on leveraging technology to maintain global security and outpace adversaries.

What's Happening on the Second Front:

• The evolution of defense technology since 9/11
• The critical role of software in modern warfare
• How commercial software practices can benefit the defense sector
• Adapting software rapidly to meet current needs
• Challenges of budgeting and tech debt in defense

Connect with Shyam:

• LinkedIn: Shyam Sankar

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 60. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt welcomes Steve Blank, the Godfather of Innovation in Defense - a pioneering entrepreneur in the Silicon Valley and now adjunct Professor at Stanford University. Steve shares his journey from Air Force service during the Vietnam War to shaping Silicon Valley, co-founding the Lean Startup methodology, and re-engaging with the DoD to drive innovation. Join Tyler and Steve for an insightful discussion on the future of defense innovation and the crucial role of rapid technological advancement in national security.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Evolution of innovation in defense technology
• Integrating commercial tech into military applications
• Challenges and strategies for rapid deployment
• Importance of dual-use technology in defense
• Current geopolitical landscape's impact on defense strategy

Connect with Steve:

• LinkedIn: Steve Blank

• Website: steveblank.com

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 59. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt reconnects with Patrick Clancey, President & CEO of IDEMIA NSS and longtime friend and soccer teammate. Patrick shares his extensive journey from an infantry officer in the Army to a leading expert in biometrics and zero trust. Join Tyler and Patrick for an insightful discussion on the future of biometrics, the importance of trust and privacy, and the innovative solutions transforming security in the modern world.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The evolution of biometrics from military use to widespread applications
• Privacy by design and its importance in biometric technology
• The impact of AI and deepfakes on identity verification
• The integration of zero trust principles in physical and digital security
• The advancement of mobile identity solutions and their practical applications

Connect with Patrick:

• LinkedIn: Patrick Clancey

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front Systems

Episode 58. Imagine a world where the commanding officer at the frontlines can procure the exact software needed to enhance their unit's capabilities, without wading through bureaucratic red tape. In this episode, Tyler Sweatt and Rob Murray, Chief Innovation Officer at Saab, delves into the critical importance of agility and adaptability in defense strategy, the challenges of bureaucracy in innovation, and his insights on leveraging existing technology and infrastructures to enhance global security. Join us as Rob shares his vision for a more agile and responsive defense industry, and why the future of national security depends on it.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The challenges of integrating new technologies in defense
• The importance of agile bureaucracy in national security
• The role of Silicon Valley in defense technology
• Strategies for improving production and scalability in defense manufacturing

Connect with Rob:

• LinkedIn: Rob Murray

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front Systems

Episode 57. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt sits down with Wasim Khaled, CEO of Blackbird.AI, to explore the critical issue of disinformation and its implications on modern society. Wasim shares his journey from being a gearhead with a computer science background to co-founding Blackbird.AI, a company dedicated to combating the manipulation of narratives in the information age. The conversation delves into the evolution of disinformation, the challenges in identifying truth in a complex media landscape, and the innovative approaches Blackbird.AI employs to address these issues.

Wasim emphasizes the existential threat posed by disinformation, highlighting how it influences everything from public health to geopolitical stability. He discusses the importance of narrative intelligence and the tools his team has developed to quantify and mitigate the effects of disinformation. This episode provides a deep dive into the complexities of modern information warfare and the innovative solutions being developed to counteract it.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The journey from tech enthusiast to disinformation expert
• Understanding and defining narrative attacks
• The role of technology in detecting and combating misinformation
• Real-world implications of disinformation on businesses and national security
• The impact of generative AI and the need for regulation in the information ecosystem

Connect with Wasim:

• LinkedIn: Wasim Khaled

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front Systems

Episode 56. On this episode of All Quiet, Tyler sits down with Devaki Raj, Chief Digital and AI Officer at Saab. Hear Devaki discuss her background in AI and machine learning, including her time as CEO of Crowdai, a no-code mission-focused AI platform acquired by Saab in 2023.

The conversation dives into Devaki's early experience working with the US government, including her initial impressions and how that has evolved into a passion for AI's positive impact on national security.

Davaki sheds light on Crowdai's acquisition by Saab and the challenges and opportunities of integrating a small, fast-moving AI company into a larger, established defense contractor.

She emphasizes the importance of user empathy and real-world testing for successful AI development.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Transitioning from a Silicon Valley mindset to working in defense

• Using AI to improve real-world applications in national security

• Challenges and benefits of integrating AI with existing defense hardware

• Importance of user empathy and real-world testing in AI development

• Integrating a small AI company into a large defense contractor

Connect with Devaki:

• LinkedIn: Devaki Raj

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front Systems

Episode 55. In this episode of All Quiet, Tyler is joined by Eric Slesinger, General Partner at 201 Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm based in Madrid, Spain. 201 Ventures focuses on advancing freedom and autonomy in Europe by backing pre-seed and seed-stage companies in the intelligence, defense, and dual-use technology sectors. Eric, originally from Washington D.C., shares his journey from engineering and intelligence to leading 201 Ventures. Throughout the episode, Tyler and Eric delve into the critical role Europe plays in global security and the evolving dynamics of the defense technology landscape. Eric highlights the shifting focus towards economic competition and the need for Europe to bolster its defense tech capabilities internally. They discuss the increased defense budgets across major European countries, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the need for innovative approaches to address the continent's unique security challenges.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The shift in Europe's defense strategy
• The impact of economic and geopolitical instability on security
• The role of startups and innovative tech in defense modernization
• Navigating the complexities of European defense procurement
• The critical need for anticipatory thinking and strategic investment in defense tech

Connect with Eric:

• LinkedIn: Eric Slesinger



Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt
• Website: Second Front Systems

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here.

Season 3, Episode 54. In this episode of All Quiet, Tyler is joined by Thomas Hendrix, Founder and Managing Partner at Decisive Point, to explore the intersection of venture capital and defense technology. Thomas shares his unique journey from a Special Forces officer in the Army to a finance professional on Wall Street, and ultimately to founding Decisive Point.  They dive into the nuances of bringing commercial technology to the defense sector, discussing the challenges and opportunities of dual-use technologies, and the importance of hardware and software integration. Thomas offers insights into the regulatory landscape, the role of government as a first customer, and the critical aspect of empathy and understanding in developing technologies for the defense community.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The journey from military service to venture capital
• The evolving landscape of dual-use technologies
• Strategic partnerships and navigating government procurement processes
• Understanding the regulatory hurdles in defense tech adoption

Connect with Thomas:

• LinkedIn: Thomas Hendrix

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 

Website: secondfront.com

Season 3, Episode 53. Today on All Quiet, Tyler sits down with Steve Bowsher, CEO of In-Q-Tel, to delve into the intricate world of venture capital as it relates to government needs. Steve shares his journey from government consulting to Silicon Valley and ultimately to leading In-Q-Tel. Throughout the episode, they explore the unique challenges and opportunities in aligning the goals of high-quality venture-backed startups with the mission requirements of government agencies. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of global threats, the strategic use of commercial technology in national security, and the ongoing efforts to maintain the United States' leadership in technology and defense.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Critical insights on balancing quantity and quality in deal flow
• The importance of proactive outreach
• The real value of post-deal support in reducing friction for technology adoption 

Connect with Steve:

• LinkedIn: Steve Bowsher

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here.

Season 3, Episode 52. Today on 'All Quiet,' Tyler welcomes Jacqueline Tame, Executive Director at Silicon Valley Defense Group (SVDG) and Operating Partner at Playground Global, a pioneering venture capital firm specializing in deep tech. In a discussion that spans the intersection of technology, policy, and defense, Jacqueline shares her unique insights into the critical role of venture capital in national security. They delve into how non-dilutive funding and regulatory strategies can propel tech innovations from concept to deployment within government frameworks. Jacqueline discusses her groundbreaking work on GAMECHANGER at the DoD's Joint AI Center and her leadership in pioneering quantum computing initiatives at PsiQuantum. The conversation also covers the importance of bridging the gap between Silicon Valley innovation and Pentagon requirements, highlighting Jacqueline's pivotal role in fostering collaborations that enhance national security.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Examining the impact of venture capital on national defense innovations
• Strategies for navigating government policies to fast-track tech deployment
• The role of artificial intelligence in policy and legal analytics
• Insights into global technological advancements and their implications for security

Connect with Jacqueline:

• LinkedIn: Jacqueline Tame

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

Season 3, Episode 51. In this episode of All Quiet, Second Front Systems’ VP of Security Donnie Hasseltine hosts Matt Conner, chief information security officer (CISO) at Westinghouse Electric Company and independent board director at Second Front Systems. Matt shares his journey into the world of cyber security, from his start at Cape Canaveral Air Station working in information security to his tenure as CISO at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and beyond. The conversation delves into how the role of the CISO has evolved from a niche technical position to a key player in strategic business decisions, reflecting on how cyber security is a crucial component of modern military operations and corporate strategy alike.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Exploring the intersection of cyber security and business strategy.
• Insights into the transformation of cyber security roles over the past two decades.
• The impact of cyber security on the efficiency and safety of military operations.

Connect with Matt:

• LinkedIn: Matt Conner

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

Season 3, Episode 50. In this episode of All Quiet, Tyler is joined by Glenn Cowan, CEO and founder of ONE9 Investments, Canada’s leading dual-use technology innovation ecosystem for critical infrastructure and national security. Glenn is a seasoned Canadian venture capitalist, retired special operations officer, and accomplished investor. Together they discuss Glenn’s journey from the Canadian Armed Forces to spearheading Canada's pioneering defense-focused venture capital fund. They shed light on the challenges and opportunities within the Canadian defense sector, particularly in developing and investing in technologies that address specific national security needs.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Transitioning from military to venture capital
• Strategic importance of Canadian investment in defense
• Unique positioning of Canada in the global defense landscape
• Modernizing Canada’s defense capabilities and infrastructure

Connect with Glenn:

• LinkedIn: Glenn Cowan

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

Season 3, Episode 49. In this special episode of All Quiet, Tyler joins Alexis Bonnell (CIO and Director of the Digital Capabilities Directorate, Department of the USAF), Bonnie Evangelista (Acting Chief Digital and AI Officer for Acquisitions, DoD), Jason Preisser (Director of Mission Services Officer, DARPA), and George Jackson (VP of Events, GovExec) for GovExec’s AI Spotlight webinar series. This episode highlights the DoD's role in the emerging AI landscape in government and some of the ways AI is already being utilized in their work and mission activities.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• AI Adoption and Technological Challenges in the DoD
• Improving Government Processes with AI
• Cultural and Operational Shifts in Defense
• Personal Experiences and Perspectives on AI

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

Season 3, Episode 48. In this episode of All Quiet, Tyler welcomes Joseph Larson, SVP and Chief of Staff at Anduril Industries, and former SES, Deputy Chief Digital and AI Officer (Algorithmic Warfare) at the DoD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO). Joseph provides an in-depth analysis of the evolving landscape of modern warfare, the pivotal role of algorithmic warfare, and the intricate dance between rapid technological advancements and policy development. Drawing from his unique vantage point, Joseph discusses the integration of AI in defense mechanisms and the strategic shifts necessitated by recent global events, underscoring the importance of agility and innovation in national defense strategies.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The impact and evolution of algorithmic warfare in modern conflict dynamics.
• Integrating AI and machine learning to enhance defense capabilities.
• Adapting defense policies to keep pace with rapid tech advancements.
• Leveraging insights from global events to inform future defense strategies.

Connect with Joe:

• LinkedIn: Joseph Larson

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

Season 3, Episode 47. In this episode of All Quiet, Tyler is joined by Joe Musselman, the visionary founder of The Honor Foundation, America’s first career transition institute for Navy SEALs and the U.S. Special Operations community. Joe details the journey that led him to starting The Honor Foundation and SchoolHouse, underscoring their pivotal roles in guiding Special Operations veterans and tech entrepreneurs toward meaningful impacts in the defense ecosystem. Through these platforms, mission-first founders in national security are provided a clear process for professional development and a diverse ecosystem of world class support and technology. Listen as they discuss the importance of infusing the defense sector with top-tier talent and aligning cutting-edge technology with the mission to safeguard national security interests.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The parallels between the Special Operations community and mission-first founders
• The journey from the battlefield to the boardroom
• Strategic mentorship and support networks that empower veterans in the tech sector
• SchoolHouse's role in fostering a supportive community for mission-first founders
• Venture capital’s role in accelerating tech solutions that enhance national security

Connect with Joe:

• LinkedIn: Joe Musselman

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

Season 3, Episode 46. Today, Tyler Sweatt is joined by Dr. Joe Altepeter from DARPA's Microsystems Technology Office. They discuss the enigmatic world of quantum mechanics, demystifying its complexities and exploring its potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and technology. Dr. Altepeter's expertise offers a rare glimpse into the cutting-edge work being done at DARPA and the exciting possibilities that quantum mechanics holds for the future of technology and defense.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Simplifying complex quantum principles
• DARPA’s role in innovation
• Separating fact from fiction with quantum technology
• When/how innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs should engage with DARPA
• Future of quantum technology & the potential applications and impacts

Connect with Dr. Altepeter:

• Website: www.darpa.mil 

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here.

This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

Season 3, Episode 45. Today, Tyler Sweatt is joined by Garrett Smith, the talented mind behind Reveal Technology. Garrett dives into the transformative journey of bringing cutting-edge products into the defense and national security sectors, emphasizing a product-first approach. As Garrett explains, Reveal Technology specializes in software designed for the hyper-tactical environment. Their flagship product, Farsight, revolutionizes how ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) data streams are converted into three-dimensional GIS (Geographical Information Systems) products, placing actionable intelligence directly into the hands of tactical operators. Garrett’s insights shed light on the nuanced process of introducing innovative products into the defense landscape, highlighting the necessity of user-centric design, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of defense acquisitions and funding mechanisms.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Empathizing with defense end-users for impactful innovation
• From problem identification to delivering tactical solutions
• Navigating the defense acquisition maze with a multi-faceted strategy
• Building strategic partnerships within the defense ecosystem
• Aligning product development with defense budgeting and funding cycles

Connect with Garret:

• LinkedIn: Garrett Smith 

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

Season 3, Episode 44. This week on All Quiet, Tyler is joined by Winston Chang who is the Global Public Sector CTO for Snowflake. Tyler and Winston engage in an enlightening conversation about utilizing public sector capabilities. Winston shares his deep expertise, offering valuable insights into effective leadership, the impact of technological advancements, and strategies for transforming government organizations. This episode offers an analysis into the complexities of public sector operations with valuable takeaways on fostering positive change and innovation.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Exploring cutting-edge trends shaping public sector tech landscapes
• Navigating hurdles, finding solutions in tech implementation challenges
• Fostering partnerships, integrating capabilities for sector-wide success
• Building resilience, embracing change in a dynamic tech environment
• Leadership insights: driving innovation in the public sector

Connect with Winston:

• LinkedIn: Winston C.

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt 
• Website: secondfront.com

Catch 2F’s Offset Symposium replay here. 

This show is produced by Soulfire Productions