Podcast
GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley
Hosted by Mike Shanley · EN
Welcome to the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley, your source for insights into international markets, government funding, foreign policy and global growth strategies. As a go-to source for companies and organizations seeking to expand their global footprint and funding, our podcast guests provide expert analysis through exclusive conversations with key decision-makers shaping the government contracting, global growth and risk assessment, and foreign policy.
The podcast features in-depth discussions with current and former U.S. government officials, global business leaders, and foreign policy experts. We cover critical topics such as government procurement priorities, navigating emerging and frontier markets, and foreign policy developments. Each episode is focused on getting your team actionable insight for your global strategy.
Gain a competitive advantage with expert insights on funding strategies, government priorities, partnership opportunities, and market intelligence that can position your organization for success. Whether you are an established government contractor, a foreign policy, or a business looking to expand globally, the Global Strategy Podcast equips you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in an evolving global landscape.
About the Host
The GovDiscovery AI Podcast is hosted by Mike Shanley, CEO of GovDiscovery AI (govdiscoveryai.com) and Konektid International (www.konektid.com).
Mike hosts the GovDiscovery AI Podcast and regularly presents on best practices for government partnering at conferences and events globally. He has been invited to speak on government contracting and global growth strategies at U.S. government conferences, Johns Hopkins University, University of Denver (Korbel School of International Studies), British Expertise International, and the U.S. Embassy – London.
Tune in to the GovDiscovery AI Podcast to stay ahead of global trends and unlock new growth opportunities.
Resources:
Govdiscoveryai.com
http://www.konektid.com
35episodes
Episodes
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Ep 81: Col. Jahara Matisek - Rethinking Warfare around Space, Civil Society, Arctic Domain, and Critical Minerals
6d ago00:50:41Summary readyDisclaimer: Views are guest's own and not the official position of the U.S. Air Force, Department of Defense, or any part of the U.S. Government. Visit www.govdiscoveryai.com to learn more about our Defense Business Intelligence Solutions Rethinking Warfare & The Role of Civil Society in Modern Conflicts Guest: Lieutenant Colonel Jahara Matisek Episode Summary In this episode, we explore the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare and the often-overlooked element crucial to national security: civil society. Joining us is defense strategy expert Lieutenant Colonel Jahara Matisek, who sheds light on why military might—munitions, strategy, and troop deployments—is no longer enough on its own. Drawing on recent events in Ukraine, we discuss how everyday citizens, NGOs, and community networks are stepping in to fill logistical gaps, bolster societal resilience, and act as a critical force multiplier in times of crisis. Key Topics Discussed The Changing Face of Warfare: Why modern conflicts require a broader perspective that goes beyond traditional military deployments to include civilian contributions. Insights from Ukraine: Lt. Col. Matisek shares his observations from his August 2021 trip to Ukraine, discussing civilian morale, the psychological impact of government actions, and how NGOs are directly supplying drone units. Hybrid Defense Explained: A look into the collective security approach that blends conventional military efforts with unconventional community support to counter modern threats. Civil Society as a Force Multiplier: How local knowledge, networks, and civilian manpower enhance military effectiveness (with parallels drawn to domestic disaster responses like Hurricane Katrina). Institutional Adaptation: The urgent need for the defense industrial base and military planners to integrate civil society actors into war games and strategic planning. Key Takeaways Community is Critical: Civil society is no longer a bystander in war; it provides vital logistical support, resources, and local intelligence that traditional military structures may lack. Integration is the Future: A "hybrid defense" approach that seamlessly integrates civilian efforts is essential for enhancing overall military effectiveness. Adaptation is Required: Defense organizations must evolve, creating adaptive frameworks and hiring personnel who understand the complex intersection of military and civilian operations. Resources Mentioned Old and New Battlespaces by Jahara Matisek: Discusses the growing prominence of sociopolitical-information warfare (Lynne Rienner, 2022). Lt. Col. Jahara Matisek's insights on the concept of Hybrid Defense.
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Ep 80: Lee Rosen, CEO, ThinkOrbital - GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley
Apr 300:40:50Summary readyHow 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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Ep 79 Victor Vigliotti, Director, U.S. Space Force Front Door
Mar 1900:36:27Summary readyIn 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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Ep 78 Col. John Oliver - U.S. Army Strategic Capital Initiative
Mar 1100:23:17Summary readyIn 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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Ep. 77 Maj. Paul Hanneman - Building Software for the Solider
Mar 600:31:29Summary ready# 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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Ep. 76: General Matthew "Jerry" Glavy (ret.) - U.S. Cyber Force Generation
Feb 1100:40:48Summary readySummary: 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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Ep. 75: Michael Robbins, AUVSI President & CEO: Drones and the future of warfare
Jan 2900:34:23Summary readyIn 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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Ep. 74: Michael Cadenazzi, Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy
Jan 2000:40:00Summary readySummary 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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Ep. 73 U.S. Army & Innovation with Dr. Matthew Willis, Army FUZE
Dec 2200:32:47Summary readySummary: 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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Ep. 72 ISOA Annual Summit Preview Podcast
Dec 1200:30:26Summary readyIn this episode, host Mike Shanley sits down with Howie Lind, President and Executive Director of ISOA, the International Stability Operations Association. Howie brings decades of experience across the Department of Defense, State Department, and the Pentagon, including serving as Deputy Director for the Iraq Project and Contracting Office. Together, they unpack: What ISOA members are experiencing across acquisition, contracting, and geopolitics - ISOA's unique role at the intersection of government and industry How companies, especially new defense entrants, can get the most ROI out of the 2026 ISOA Annual Summit What makes ISOA's overseas conferences so high-value for networking and partnership-building Whether you're already an ISOA member or looking to expand into overseas stability operations, this conversation is loaded with practical insights. RESOURCES: Howie Lind; howielind@stability-operations.org Gneeral Inquiries: Ginny Maycock; gmaycock@stability-operations.org Sponsorships Contact: Roxanne Kaufman; roxannekaufman@stability-operations.org BIOGRAPHY: Howard Lind serves as the President and Executive Director of the International Stability Operations Association that represents private sector companies and non-governmental organizations that work in fragile states around the world. Previously, Mr. Lind served as a Washington DC representative for the Fluor Government Group regarding work in the Middle East and central Asia. Prior to joining Fluor, Mr. Lind served in the Departments of Defense and State in the offices of Iraq and Afghanistan reconstruction from 2003 to 2007. He began at the Pentagon in support of Iraq and Afghanistan, then in the State Department's Iraq Reconstruction Management Office. Following that assignment, Mr. Lind served again in the Pentagon in the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA-ALT) as Deputy Director for the Iraq Project and Contracting Office. Mr. Lind began his professional career as a US Naval Officer. After a 20-year career, he retired at the rank of Commander having served aboard five Navy ships of the line and at Navy headquarters staffs. Mr. Lind received a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Tech and a Master of Science degree from the Naval Postgraduate School. 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: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/early-defense-opportunity-identification/
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