Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast All Quiet on the Second Front

If we want to win the next fight, we have to outlearn first.

This week, Tyler sits down with Sir Tom Copinger-Symes, former Deputy Commander of UK's Cyber & Specialist Command (CSOC), to talk about the hard shift from infantry officer to cyber leader — and what that journey reveals about where defense is behind.

What’s happening on the second front:

• Industrial-age systems in an information-age world
• Why cyber and electronic warfare are decisive
• Why recruitment is a flow problem, not a patriotism problem
• The cognitive battlefield shaping outcomes every day
• And what dialing up risk really means

No backbone → no speed.

No speed → no advantage.

Connect with Sir Tom Copinger-Symes

• LinkedIn: Sir Tom Copinger-Symes

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

This week on All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with Brian MacCarthy to talk about why defense innovation keeps getting stuck between good ideas and real delivery. They dig into why the ecosystem keeps confusing motion with progress, and what it takes to get past pilots and into production.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Why capital without execution doesn’t move the mission
• The real friction slowing commercial tech adoption in government
• Culture change as the hardest (and most necessary) battleground
• Why “prime vs. neoprime” misses the point
• What it actually takes to move from pilots to scaled impact

Connect with Brian

• LinkedIn: Brian MacCarthy

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Leaving the uniform doesn’t mean leaving your identity behind.

In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt sits down with Bill Wall — former Green Beret, JSOC veteran, and CEO of Accrete AI — to talk about transition, purpose, and why the skills forged in special operations translate far beyond the battlefield.

What's happening on the Second Front:

• How military frameworks like F3EA translate directly to business growth
• Why identity loss — not skills — is the hardest part of leaving the uniform
• What it really takes to drive innovation inside institutions that resist change
• How AI is maturing inside government, and where it actually delivers value
• The role of risk tolerance and financial resilience in post-military success
• Why meaningful progress rarely comes from easy or comfortable answers

In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with former US Congressman Brad Carson to examine one perspective in the evolving debate around AI governance, public trust, and national security.

Brad brings decades of experience across government, academia, and policy, having served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and in senior Department of Defense leadership roles. He is now President of Americans for Responsible Innovation, where he focuses on AI policy and public trust.

The conversation explores frontier AI risks, innovation versus regulation, and the tradeoffs policymakers face as public skepticism around AI continues to grow.

What’s happening on the Second Front:

• AI governance and competing views on guardrails
• Frontier AI risks and national security implications
• Public trust, skepticism, and potential backlash
• Innovation, regulation, and policy tradeoffs
• Workforce impacts and public perception of AI

Connect with Brad

• LinkedIn: Brad Carson

Connect with Tyler Sweatt

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt sits down with Meghan Moretti, CEO of the Johnny Mac Soldiers Fund, to talk about service beyond the uniform and what it takes to sustain impact long after the fight fades from the headlines.

A West Point classmate and former Army MP, Meghan shares her path from the military to healthcare to leading one of the most impactful military family nonprofits in the country. The conversation explores leadership transitions, generational responsibility, and why community, not just capital, is essential to honoring service and sacrifice.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Why nonprofit leadership is faster and harder than most people expect
• The scale of need facing military families as the next generation reaches college age
• How community and storytelling cut through generational numbness
• What meaningful service looks like after the uniform comes off

In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt is joined by Fred Thomas, UK Member of Parliament for Plymouth Moor View, Royal Marines Reservist, and member of the House of Commons Defence Committee.

Fred brings a perspective shaped by time in uniform and now inside Parliament, where he focuses on modernizing defense capability and accelerating the adoption of new technology. Together, they examine how allied defense ecosystems can move faster without sacrificing sovereignty, why procurement and information-sharing remain persistent friction points, and where NATO and partner nations have real opportunity to collaborate more effectively.

The conversation spans the UK, US, and broader NATO landscape at a moment when security, technology, and public trust are increasingly intertwined.

What's happening on the Second Front:

• Why defense innovation continues to lag behind the threat
• The tension between sovereignty and interoperability across allied nations
• NATO’s underutilized role in collaborative procurement
• Where emerging technologies could unlock advantage in the next 3–5 years
• The role of public service and cohesion in long-term security

Connect with Fred Thomas

Connect with Tyler Sweatt

This week, Tyler is joined by Adam Lackey, COO of Onebrief, for a conversation on building mission-ready software that operators champion. Adam breaks down how Onebrief’s culture of iteration, empathy, and urgency shapes everything—from watching users stress-test the product to delivering changes in hours, not days.

They dig into Onebrief’s evolution from a kanban board to a full mission-planning platform, why “don’t be the contractor no one wants in the room” is a guiding principle, and how true value comes from mastering workflows, eliminating friction, and meeting users at their exact point of need.

Adam also reflects on the broader purpose of defense tech: preparing so well that capabilities deter conflict rather than drive it.

A candid, practical look at building tools that are as reliable as a rifle—and evolving them at the pace the mission demands.

Connect with Adam Lackey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-j-lackey/

Connect with Tyler Sweatt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylersweatt

The defense ecosystem works best when it works together. Mission Cultivate is helping make that happen.

Tyler Sweatt sits down with Robert Fehlen, Managing Principal at Dark Corner Solutions and Mission Cultivate, to talk about what comes after the startup buzz: how lessons from Mobilize Vision led to a platform built to connect the fragmented defense ecosystem.

They unpack what’s broken in today’s industrial base, what it really takes to bridge the Valley of Death, and how Mission Cultivate is helping the builders, operators, and advisors who keep showing up because they know what’s at stake.

Request to join Mission Cultivate: https://www.missioncultivate.com/

Connect with Robert

• LinkedIn: Robert Fehlen

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Government bureaucracy isn’t exactly the sexiest problem in defense—but it’s one of the most painful. 

In this episode, host Tyler Sweatt sits down with Zachary Long, Founder of ConductorAI and former Palantir leader, to unpack how his team is taking on one of the biggest bottlenecks in government operations: paperwork.

From automating complex approval chains to bridging the gap between policy and real-world execution, Zach shares how ConductorAI is bringing modern software principles to the most frustrating parts of government workflows. He and Tyler get candid about startup lessons, from navigating base access and culture gaps to building tech that actually works for users in the field.

What's happening on the Second Front:

• Why “showing up on site” beats every virtual meeting
• How Palantir’s culture shaped ConductorAI’s approach
• The challenge of solving diffuse problems that everyone feels but no one owns
• Zach’s unconventional “king for a day” policy wish

If you’ve ever wrestled with a CAC renewal, an ATO, or just the endless maze of government forms, this one’s for you.

Connect with Zachary

• LinkedIn: Zachary Long

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Tyler sits down with Tyler Xuan Saltsman, co-founder and CEO of EdgeRunner AI, to talk about building air-gapped, domain-specific AI for the warfighter. From his time as a Penn State wrestler and Army logistics officer to leading supercompute projects at AWS and Stability AI, Saltsman’s journey has been about speed, precision, and making technology usable where it matters most: at the tactical edge.

What’s happening on the Second Front:

• How EdgeRunner AI builds personalized, disconnected models that know your MOS or AFSC
• Why smaller, localized models outperform one-size-fits-all AI in the field
• Real-world logistics workflows — op orders, manifests, and mission pivots — powered by edge AI
• The importance of sovereign, culturally aligned AI across partner nations
• How synthetic data can expose unit readiness and knowledge gaps
• Lessons in velocity: why 80 percent deployed beats 100 percent delayed

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Xuan Saltsman

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Tyler chats with Andrew Black, co-founder and CEO of Kovr.ai and former AWS Emerging Tech lead, about the unsexy work that makes mission software real: turning security and compliance into something fast, predictable, and built into the dev loop. Andrew explains how Kovr.ai reads system docs, maps to NIST 800-53, drafts control implementations, flags gaps, and recommends fixes, so engineers focus on high-judgment problems while AOs and risk owners get reliable packages that move.

What’s happening on the Second Front:

• The true Valley of Death, speed and scale in production
• AI that automates SSPs, findings, and control mapping
• How to make compliance native to CI and CD with JIRA, Jenkins, SIEM
• Why fixed-price software and clear architecture matter for customers
• Culture over strategy, setting weekly “big rocks,” hiring for grit

Connect with Andrew

• LinkedIn: Andrew Black

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with Geoff Wylde, VP and General Manager of ŌURA to talk about what happens when consumer tech collides with national security.

What started as a global health project in 2019 quickly became a breakthrough for the U.S. military: using the ŌURA Ring to predict illness, monitor fatigue, and give commanders and operators real-time insight into readiness. Since then, the technology has scaled across the Air Force and Navy, shaping how units think about human performance, privacy, and resilience in the field.

In this episode, they unpack:

• How wearables move from lifestyle data to mission-critical intelligence
• The balance of privacy, security, and usability in defense settings
• Lessons from embedding commercial tech directly with operators
• Why the next edge isn’t just faster hardware, but healthier, more resilient people

Connect with Geoff

• LinkedIn: Geoff Wylde

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

On this special customer spotlight episode, Tyler sits down with Ivan Zhang, co-founder of Cohere, to unpack the evolution of secure, operationally effective AI—from research lab to real-world deployments. 

Whether you're an AI builder, a public-sector leader, or just someone curious about where next-gen models are heading, this episode dives into what it really takes to deploy language models in the wild: from running LLMs on ships and air-gapped systems, to building trust with hesitant users, to rethinking the interface entirely.

What's happening on the Second Front:

• Why secure-by-default AI is a prerequisite in defense, healthcare, and finance
• The real blockers to adoption (surprise: it’s not the tech)
• How to make AI useful for people who don’t sit behind screens
• What it looks like when your AI speaks with urgency—or doesn’t speak at all

Connect with Ivan:

• LinkedIn: Ivan Zhang

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

For our 100th episode—and our first ever live recording—former Acting Secretary of Defense Chris Miller flips the script and interviews host Tyler Sweatt.

What follows is equal parts roast, reflection, and rallying cry. Tyler opens up about choosing West Point, serving after 9/11, life as a combat engineer in Afghanistan, and the winding path that led him to build and lead Second Front Systems. Chris pushes him on leadership, culture, organizational debt, and what it feels like to become “the guy you used to make fun of.”

Together they get candid about:

• The origins (and authenticity) of All Quiet
• Military lessons that don’t translate to business
• Why organizational debt is the hardest part of being CEO
• Why Tyler believes DoD innovation spending is broken—and what needs to change now

It’s unfiltered, funny, and bluntly honest—the perfect way to mark 100 episodes of mission-obsessed conversation.

Connect with Chris: 

• Twitter: Chris Miller

Connect with Tyler: 

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

What happens when a bunch of Palantir and Lockheed alums get fed up with how hard it is to do business with the government—and actually do something about it? You get Pryzm: the common operating system for capture.

In this episode, Tyler sits down with Nick LaRovere, co-founder and CEO of Pryzm, to talk about building for the part of the defense ecosystem everyone hates (but no one can ignore): procurement. From scraping sam.gov to stitching together Salesforce, JIRA, and inboxes, Nick shares how Pryzm is bringing order to chaos—and helping both industry and government move faster.

They also get into:

• What it really takes to build a mission-driven company—and why most give up
• The hidden cost of stovepiped teams and siloed data
• How policy, budget, and capture are finally starting to talk to each other
• Why talent and team dynamics are just as critical as the tech you’re building

What does it really take to get disruptive tech to the fleet? 

In this episode, Tyler is joined by Noam Oz—former Director of Innovation Operations at NavalX and now Navy Portfolio Lead at Divergent—to unpack what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s changing across the national security ecosystem. Noam brings hard-earned insights from both sides of the table.

What's happening on the Second Front

• Lessons from building inside NavalX and the Navy's Unmanned Task Force 
• Common mistakes startups make when trying to work with the Navy 
• How to translate technical innovation into operational relevance 
• Why understanding incentives—not just requirements—is key 
• Where real momentum is building across government, industry, and venture

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with longtime friend and Harpoon Ventures GP Larsen Jensen—Olympian, SEAL, and now defense tech investor—for a raw conversation on transitioning out of service and building tech that actually gets to the warfighter. Larsen also shares why he believes we’re at an inflection point in defense tech and why the next generation of founders has a duty (and an opportunity) to step up.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Why this is the golden age of defense innovation
• How Black Flag is helping founders navigate the maze of government
• What needs to change—fast—to keep private capital in the fight

Connect with Larsen Jensen: LinkedIn

Connect with Tyler Sweatt: LinkedIn

On this customer spotlight episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, TJ Rowe sits down with John Conafay, Co-Founder and CEO of Integrate—a platform built to manage complex programs for the world’s most ambitious hardware. Today, it’s helping the Space Force move faster.

John shares what it took to move from fragmented workflows and siloed tools to a secure, scalable solution now deployed across defense and commercial space programs. They also dig into what it means to build dual-use software that actually works—for the mission, and the people behind it.

What's Happening on the Second Front

• Why product-market fit with government isn’t that different from commercial
• What makes the government a better customer than most startups expect
• Why trust and usability—not compliance alone—define real dual-use software
• Why risk isn’t optional when you’re building for national security

If you’re building tech for the front lines—space, cyber, or otherwise—this one’s for you.

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with longtime friend and fellow West Point grad Rob Boeckmann, now Director of Social at Black Rifle Coffee Company, to talk about his unconventional path from field artillery officer to global brand strategist.

They dig into the real-world parallels between military ops and modern marketing, how to build brand voice with precision, and why good marketers operate like fire support officers. Rob also shares lessons from running social at AWS, launching a top influencer agency in Europe, and how AI is reshaping creative execution.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Transitioning from active duty to creative/brand roles
• Lessons from marketing at scale (AWS, Black Rifle Coffee)
• How military leadership translates to commercial success
• The grind and strategy behind modern social media
• The role of AI in creative and operational acceleration

In this special episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, we’re bringing you a live recording from Offset 2025. Moderated by Danielle Metz, 2F Chief Policy Officer, this panel tackles a question that’s easy to say but hard to operationalize: how do we actually build trust between government and industry to deliver secure, mission-ready technology? 

Danielle is joined by Rob Nolen, Chief Technologist for DoD at AWS, Dan Garcia, Chief Information Security Officer at EnterpriseDB, and Eric Sanders, Chief Information Security Officer at DHS (I&A) and, together, they unpack the cultural and structural baggage that slows innovation—and explore what it’ll take to shift hearts, minds, and bureaucracies toward impact.

What’s Happening on the Second Front: 

• Building security into systems from the start (not bolting it on later)
• Measuring impact through velocity, not vanity metrics
• Risk tolerance vs. risk avoidance in government tech
• The role of policy and regulation in accelerating trust
• Why a shared language between builders, buyers, and approvers is mission-critical

In this special keynote episode recorded live at Offset Symposium, Senator Markwayne Mullin joins 2F CEO Tyler Sweatt to talk national security, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the urgent need for change across government and defense.

Senator Mullin lays out a clear-eyed view of the current state: the technology is moving faster than the government—and without bold action, we risk falling even further behind. From budgeting flexibility to breaking down silos across the DoD, this conversation covers where the gaps are, how private sector partnerships can help, and what it’ll take to drive real reform.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Why relationships—not just policy—drive change
• How the DoD can embrace a “get to yes” culture
• Making room in the budget for faster, more flexible solutions
• Why the next 18 months are critical for national security transformation

If we’re serious about change, we can’t wait for permission. Tune in for a candid, high-impact conversation from the Offset main stage.

This week on All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with Bret Boyd, co-founder and CEO of Sustainment, to talk shop on reshoring U.S. manufacturing, rethinking the defense industrial base, and why clipboards and PDFs are still running the depots. Bret’s got the receipts—combat deployments with the 75th Ranger Regiment, 15+ years in tech, and now building one of the largest networks of non-traditional U.S. manufacturers. 

What’s happening on the Second Front: 

• How small manufacturers hold the key to reindustrialization
• The real bottlenecks behind readiness: not weapons, but parts
• Why defense acquisition needs fewer PDFs and more CRMs
• The case for a U.S. “manufacturing ready reserve”

Connect with Bret 

• Linkedin: Bret Boyd

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler sits down with Cameron McCord, CEO and co-founder of Nominal, to talk about why testing & evaluation is finally getting its moment in the spotlight—and why that matters more than you think. From time at Anduril and Lux Capital to launching Nominal, Cam shares a candid look at the bottlenecks slowing down national security and how the right software (and the right team) can tip the balance.

What's happening on the Second Front

• Why test data is the next frontier for advantage in defense
• How government incentives and contracting structures need to evolve
• What it really takes to build a mission-driven team in this space
• The difference between missionaries and mercenaries

Connect with Cameron

• LinkedIn: Cameron McCord

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, TJ Rowe (2F CRO) sits down with Samuel (Sammy) Semwangu, CEO of Bazze—a company redefining how commercial data is delivered into the national security enterprise. Sammy shares his journey from special operations to Silicon Valley, the tough lessons learned building in defense tech, and how Bazze evolved into the commercial data infrastructure behind some of today’s most forward-leaning intel operations.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• The shift from nation-state dominance to commercially driven intelligence
• How Bazze built a federated API to unlock insights from 20+ data vendors in seconds
• Why aligning with primes and integrators is key to scale—and survival
• The incentive problem inside the building—and why smart software alone doesn’t solve it
• Partner-led GTM, SBIR heartbreak, and why timing > everything

Connect with Sammy

• LinkedIn: Samuel Semwangu

Connect with TJ

• LinkedIn: TJ Rowe

Dive into an exciting surprise episode of All Quiet on the Second Front with host Tyler Sweatt, joined by Lt. Gen. Jack Shanahan and Stephen Rodriguez from the Atlantic Council's Software-Defined Warfare Commission. This episode cuts through the complexities of defense technology to focus squarely on the transformative role of software in modern warfare. Tyler, Jack, and Stephen discuss Department of Defense initiatives, underscore the urgency of innovative strategies, and share personal anecdotes that illuminate the path toward a software-driven defense landscape, shedding light on pivotal developments that are reshaping military engagement across the globe. Tune in to understand the stakes and opportunities in software-defined warfare.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Insights into Project Maven and the JAIC’s impact on military strategies.
• Lessons from Jack Shanahan’s Air Force career and Stephen Rodriguez’s tech ventures.
• How the DoD is adapting to software-centric warfare for technological superiority.
• The need for rapid, actionable strategies to ensure future readiness.

Connect with Jack

• LinkedIn: Jack Shanahan

Connect with Stephen

• LinkedIn: Stephen Rodriguez

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 88. On this episode of All Quiet, host Tyler Sweat chats with cybersecurity expert Greg Touhill, director of the CERT Division at Carnegie Mellon's Software Engineering Institute. With a rich background as the U.S. government's first Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and a seasoned executive in the U.S. Air Force and Department of Homeland Security, Greg discusses the trajectory of cybersecurity from its foundational days to its current critical role in national security and private sector strategy. Explore how AI and cybersecurity intersect and the essential steps today's leaders must take to safeguard our digital future.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Greg's journey from the U.S. Air Force to leading national cybersecurity initiatives.
• The impact of AI on cybersecurity—what does the future hold?
• Cybersecurity in the corporate world: How is it shaping business strategies at the highest levels?
• Emerging challenges: What are the next big threats, and how are we preparing to tackle them?

Connect with Greg

• LinkedIn: Gregory Touhill

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

SEI resources discussed:

• SEI website: https://www.sei.cmu.edu/
• AI/AI Security: Artificial Intelligence Security Incident Response Team (AISIRT)
• Risk and Resilience: Enterprise Risk and Resilience Management
• SEI GitHub: Software Engineering Institute · GitHub

In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt chats with Troy Demmer of Gecko Robotics about transforming infrastructure with robotics, AI, and smarter data. They explore Gecko’s origins, its impact on defense and energy, and how better maintenance can drive national security and economic growth. From crawling robots to AI-powered insights, Troy shares how Gecko is tackling critical infrastructure challenges—and why the biggest threat isn’t new technology, but inertia.

What's Happening on the Second Front

• Robots + AI = Smarter Infrastructure – How Gecko is transforming maintenance and inspection.
• Data Overload? – Why most organizations collect too much but use too little.
• Tech vs. Tradition – The real battle is overcoming industry inertia, not innovation.
• AI’s Hidden Flaw – Great power, terrible results—unless the data is right.
• The Future is Now – Edge computing, real-time insights, and maximizing what we already have.

Connect with Troy

• LinkedIn: Troy Demmer

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt sits down with Hon. Martha McSally—former A-10 fighter pilot, U.S. Senator, and now 2F Independent Board Director—to talk about resilience, reinvention, and leading with purpose.

Martha shares her journey from being one of the first women to fly a fighter jet in combat to navigating the world of politics and now advising leaders and companies. She discusses how to thrive through major career transitions, why identity isn’t tied to job titles, and how leaders can build trust, stay adaptable, and create high-performing teams.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Martha’s path from fighter pilot to senator to board director.
• Why trust, clear communication, and self-awareness are critical for leadership.
• How to navigate career transitions and detach from external identity.
• Practical leadership tools, from curiosity to balancing work intensity.
• Why now is the best time to lean in, innovate, and lead.

Connect with Martha

• LinkedIn: Martha McSally

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

On this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt sits down with Scott Sanders, Chief Growth Officer of Forterra, to talk about building elite teams, mission-driven leadership, and the realities of hiring in defense tech. Scott shares his journey from Marine Raider to early Anduril employee to leading a company that’s shaping the future of autonomous ground systems.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Why so many veterans return to defense tech (even after swearing they wouldn’t)
• The “deployment test” for hiring and how to spot high-impact operators
• Balancing speed and quality in recruiting without breaking the culture
• The importance of taking time away from work to stay sharp
• Why military leaders struggle to let go—and how to fix it

Connect with Scott

• LinkedIn: Scott Sanders

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 84. In this episode of All Quiet, Bernard Brantley, CISO at Corelight, joins Tyler Sweatt to delve into the interplay between rapid technological development and robust security practices. With a rich background at giants like Amazon and Microsoft, where he was instrumental in architecting network security solutions for Xbox Live and other high-value assets, Bernard offers deep insights into how security can coexist with fast-paced innovation. Discover how Bernard’s approaches at Amazon serve as a model for balancing innovation with stringent security, applicable across the tech industry. The conversation also explores the critical role of AI in modern security measures, highlighting real-life success stories and providing practical advice derived from Bernard's extensive experience in the field.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Techniques for embedding security from the start of development
• How to balance security needs with engineering efforts so both can coexist and thrive
• Bernard’s role in architecting network security solutions for Xbox Live and other Microsoft assets
• Insights into how artificial intelligence is reshaping security practices, offering both solutions and new challenges

Connect with Bernard

• LinkedIn: Bernard Brantley

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 83. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, TJ sits down with Ted Reynolds, Chief Revenue Officer at Decision Lens, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of selling software to the federal government. Ted shares insights from his 25+ year career, exploring the unique demands of public sector sales, the shift from "coin-operated" to mission-driven sales teams, and how Decision Lens is helping agencies navigate complex planning and prioritization. Tune in for a conversation about scaling in defense tech, overcoming barriers to entry, and aligning technology with mission impact.

What's Happening on the Second Front

• Why hiring mission-oriented salespeople is crucial for success.
• How Decision Lens helps agencies prioritize resources effectively.
• Lessons on moving from early contracts to sustainable growth.
• Key differences between commercial and federal sales.

Connect with Ted

• Ted Reynolds

Connect with TJ

• TJ Rowe

Dive into a high-octane discussion on defense tech innovation with Justin Fanelli, the Acting CTO of the U.S. Navy, on All Quiet on the Second Front. On this episode, host Tyler Sweatt and Justin dissect the transformative shifts happening within the Department of Navy through dynamic public-private partnerships. Discover how these collaborations are paving the way for more agile, efficient, and impactful defense technologies. From breaking bureaucratic barriers to redefining portfolio management, this episode is a masterclass in driving change within one of the world’s most formidable bureaucracies. 

What's Happening on the Second Front

• enhancing Navy agility and efficiency
• streamlining tech development and deployment
• embracing change for greater innovation and results
• boosting military capabilities and economic benefits

Connect with Justin

• LinkedIn: Justin Fanelli

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

We’re bringing in the Feds!

On this episode of All Quiet, Jeff Fields, Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the FBI,  joins host Tyler Sweatt to navigate the complex interplay of public and private markets. They’ll unpack the tangled webs of security, innovation, and risk—revealing what it truly looks like when the Feds meet the founders. Jeff brings a refreshing perspective to the vital role of federal agencies in shaping and securing the future of technological advancement.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• The relationship between public markets and private innovation in the context of security and risk management
• The evolving nature of global threats, including the strategic challenges posed by nation-states and non-state actors
• Case Study with FBI and Google: Illustrating what cooperation between the FBI and victim companies looks like during significant legal actions, like the Google indictment
• Celebrating U.S. cultural influence—from hip hop to Wu-Tang Clan and Nirvana, highlighting America's unique contributions to the global stage

Connect with Jeff

• LinkedIn: Jeff Fields

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 80. We’re going back to the beginning! In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt is joined by Enrique Oti (CSO), TJ Rowe (CRO), and Sam Gray (VP of Strategic Engagements) to peel back the curtain. Last week, Second Front announced the launch of the 2F Product Suite so what better time to have a look back at all that’s happened since beginning.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• When product market fit isn’t enough
• Putting your end-users first (shout out to our first customers who clicked the believe button with us)
• Scaling together
• Recruiting the 10x hire

Connect with the Team

• Enrique Oti: LinkedIn
• TJ Rowe: LinkedIn
• Tyler Sweatt: LinkedIn
• Sam Gray: LinkedIn

In this episode of All Quiet, former combat tech turned CEO and Founder of Darkhive, John Goodson, joins Tyler Sweatt to delve into the critical interplay between real-world military operations and the forefront of defense technology. With insights gained on the frontlines and in the tech lab, John discusses the critical importance of creating technologies that truly support soldiers in combat scenarios - because no one wants to deal with a software update while under enemy fire. Reflecting on the intersection of robust tech and real-world military needs, this discussion explores the essential balance of innovation and practical application in the heat of battle. 

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Why "good on paper" doesn’t always mean "good under fire"
• How real-world combat experience shapes the future of defense technology
• The pros and cons of open-source vs. proprietary tech in defense
• What would happen if soldiers could choose their own tech? John has some ideas

Connect with John

• LinkedIn: John Goodson

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 78. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt is joined by Saj Huq from Plexal, a key player at the forefront of defense and security innovation. As a former pilot in the UK Royal Air Force and a veteran in the tech industry, Saj brings a wealth of experience to the table. Dive into a discussion on how Plexal is creating impactful ecosystems by bridging gaps between government, industry, and academia. This episode explores the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of national security and private sector innovation, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration and the roles different sectors play in enhancing global security and economic prosperity. 

What’s Happening on the Second Front: 

• How Plexal is fostering ecosystems that merge government, industry, and academia.
• Critical contributions of private innovation to national security.
• The strategic roles of alliances like AUKUS and NATO in enhancing global security.
• How reducing access barriers can increase sector-wide participation in defense and security.
• Exploring the link between economic stability and national security for a resilient nation.

Connect with Saj

• LinkedIn: Saj Huq

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 77. On this episode of All Quiet, host Tyler Sweatt sits down with Michael Brasseur, Chief Strategy Officer of Saab and GM at Skapa. Discover Michael's seamless shift from a distinguished naval career, with tours in the White House, Pentagon, and NATO and founding Task Force 59, to leading a cutting edge transformational task force in the private sector. They delve into the creation of Saab’s Skapa, an initiative to accelerate the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies and solutions. This discussion not only sheds light on the complexities of transforming large-scale operations but also on how to cultivate a culture that embraces innovation. Michael's insights on leadership, team-building, and strategic problem-solving offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to make a significant impact in their field.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Strategic thinking behind major defense innovations
• Effective leadership and team-building in high-stakes environments
• Integrating AI and robotics to solving operational defense problems
• The "Skapa Innovation Flywheel" and its real-world applications

Connect with Michael:

• LinkedIn: Michael Brasseur

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 76. Join us on this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front as guest host Enrique Oti welcomes Paul Asadoorian, Principal Security Researcher at Eclypsium. During this episode, they dive into the often overlooked world of firmware security, exploring how vulnerabilities at this foundational level pose significant risks not just to our military and national security, but also to healthcare, food supply chains, and more. Discover how Paul's work seeks to transform the precarious nature of trust in our digital components into a more secure reality, ensuring the integrity of the devices we depend on every day.

What’s happening on the Second Front: 

• Firmware security risks and vulnerabilities
• Transforming false trust into true security
• Balancing and operationalizing security & compliance

Connect with Paul:

• LinkedIn: Paul Asadoorian

Connect with Enrique:

• LinkedIn: Enrique Oti

Join Tyler Sweatt on this week’s episode of All Quiet on the Second Front as he sits down with Mamie Cruse, VP of Partnerships at Second Front Systems. Dive into the intricacies of forming effective partnerships that go beyond traditional transactional frameworks to create an all-boats-rise framework. Get insights into the strategic use of partnerships as a lever for growth and the challenges of aligning partnership goals with organizational missions.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Fostering mutual growth and success beyond the pipeline, for end-users, partners and the company
• Navigating the challenges of early-stage growth and strategies for sustainable development
• Balancing creative ideation and operational execution within partnerships

Connect with Mamie

• LinkedIn: Mamie Cruse

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 61. What if a startup could revolutionize U.S. Air Force operations by applying fintech principles to defense tech? In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, TJ Rowe, Chief Revenue Officer at Second Front, sits down with Arun Nair, CEO and Founder of OpsLab. In this special customer spotlight episode, Arun discusses his transition from fintech to defense tech, focusing on solving air mobility challenges for the Department of Defense. Discover how Ops Lab is transforming air mobility and setting new standards for defense technology.

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Integrating commercial technology into military applications
• The role of end-user feedback in developing defense solutions
• Challenges and strategies for rapid deployment
• The importance of partnerships in scaling defense technology
• Ops Lab’s plans for broader deployment across military branches

Connect with Arun

LinkedIn: Arun Nair

Connect with TJ

Linkedin: TJ Rowe

TJ Rowe, CRO of Second Front Systems, guest hosts an engaging episode of All Quiet on the Second Front with Andrew Powell, CEO of Learn To Win. This customer spotlight episode explores Learn To Win's journey from pioneering sports learning technology to mastering defense applications. The company utilizes the synergy of learning technology and data science to revolutionize training methods, benefiting both elite athletes and military personnel. Dive into the conversation about the hurdles and triumphs in achieving product-market fit and the innovative strategies employed by Learn to Win to scale in the defense sector.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The evolution from sports to defense and the adoption of dual-use technology
• How sports analytics are repurposed for defense applications, enhancing tactical readiness and operational effectiveness
• The complexities of expanding a technology business within the defense landscape.
• The role of strategic collaborations in accelerating Learn to Win’s impact and reach across defense markets

Connect with Andrew

Linkedin: Andrew Powell

Connect with TJ

LinkedIn: TJ Rowe

Join host Tyler Sweatt and Schuyler Moore, Chief Technology Officer at CENTCOM, in this compelling episode of All Quiet on the Second Front. Dive into Schuyler's journey through the realms of tech legislation to her pivotal role in driving technological advancements in military operations. This discussion illuminates CENTCOM's innovative approach to integrating cutting-edge technologies in complex and dynamic environments. Explore the development of Task Force 59, the operational impact of "Desert Guardian," and how CENTCOM is piloting the future of defense technology.

What's Happening on the Second Front:

• How CENTCOM tackles complex tech integration in volatile environments
• The culture and processes fostering rapid tech adoption at CENTCOM
• Tangible benefits of new technologies in active military operations
• How partnerships are pivotal to advancing CENTCOM's tech initiatives

Connect with Schuyler:

LinkedIn: Schuyler Moore

Connect with Tyler:

Linkedin: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 71. Join host Tyler Sweatt as he chats with Dr. Courtney Crosby from Booz Allen Hamilton about the cutting-edge of AI and decision science in defense technology. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, discover how future-facing strategies and cognitive science are shaping the landscape of defense innovation. Dr. Crosby delves into the role of AI in addressing today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s scenarios. Whether you’re involved in defense procurement or interested in the intersections of technology and strategy, this discussion offers key insights into navigating complex systems and integrating advanced technologies in defense operations.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Forecasting and preparing for future challenges
• Seamlessly Integrating AI into defense operations
• Maneuvering through the complexities of defense procurement and innovation pathways.
• The role of cognitive science in shaping decisions that drive defense strategies and technology adoption.

Connect with Dr. Courtney Crosby

LinkedIn: Dr. Courtney Crosby

Connect with Tyler Sweatt: 

LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 70. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, guest host Enrique Oti discusses the dynamic intersection of entrepreneurship and cybersecurity with Jeremy Vaughan, CEO of Start Left. They explore Jeremy’s entrepreneurial path and how it led him to prioritize robust security in tech development. The conversation spans from Jeremy's motivations and the foundational strategies of Start Left to the broader challenges facing startups in integrating advanced security measures. Tune in to hear how personal experiences and industry demands shape the development of innovative, secure tech solutions.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Personal and professional factors driving entrepreneurs towards innovative security solutions

• Impact of early and integrated security measures on the success and sustainability of tech startups

• Ongoing challenges and strategies in cultivating a security-first culture within fast-growing tech enterprises

• Practical insights on how startups can navigate and influence the evolving cybersecurity landscape

Connect with Jeremy:

• LinkedIn: Jeremy Vaughan

Connect with Enrique:

• LinkedIn: Enrique Oti

• Website: Second Front

Episode 69. Navigating the labyrinth of government procurement can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt chats with Jonathan Mostowski, president of Agile Acquisitions, LLC and seasoned expert in government acquisitions. With over two decades of experience, Jonathan has pioneered innovative procurement models and shaped the landscape of modern IT services acquisition. Dive into a discussion that demystifies the complexities of government contracts, explores the cutting-edge of procurement strategies, and examines the cultural shifts necessary to streamline governmental innovation.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Overcoming the hurdles of traditional government procurement processes
• Strategies for successful government contracting and acquisitions
• The role of culture change within federal acquisition
• Practical advice for businesses trying to penetrate the government market

Connect with Jonathan

• Linkedin: Jonathan Mostowski

Connect with Tyler

• Linkedin: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 68. Dive into a compelling discussion on TSA’s transformative leap into next-generation technologies with Dan McCoy, former Chief Innovation Officer at TSA and now Head of Business Development at BMNT. Stepping in for Tyler Sweatt, Enrique Oti uncovers the strategies behind TSA’s embrace of cutting-edge solutions to enhance security operations and streamline processes. In this episode, Dan shares his firsthand experiences and challenges in integrating advanced technologies within TSA, revealing how these initiatives are not just about innovation, but about transforming the agency to meet future demands. Discover the intricate balance between maintaining robust security protocols and pushing the boundaries of technological innovation.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Insights into the critical role of advanced technologies in modernizing federal operations
• Strategies for overcoming bureaucratic hurdles to implement transformative tech solutions
• The impact of leadership and vision in driving technological adoption at TSA
• A look at how TSA is setting a precedent for innovation in government agencies

Connect with Daniel McCoy:

• Linkedin: Daniel McCoy

Connect with Tyler Sweatt: 

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 67. In this episode of "All Quiet on the Second Front" host Tyler Sweatt and guest Bryan Lane, Assistant Director at the FDIC, dive into the complexities and opportunities at the intersection of artificial intelligence, security, and policy in the defense sector. Bryan, a veteran of the Marine Corps and a seasoned expert in technology acquisition, shares his journey from frontline linguistics in Fallujah to spearheading major AI initiatives within the federal government. This episode explores the pivotal role of AI in enhancing defense strategies, the challenges of integrating new technologies within secure frameworks, and the impact of policy on operational effectiveness. Discover how a unified approach to technology and policy can transform defense capabilities and ensure a robust national security posture.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• The role of AI in modernizing defense acquisition and strategy.

• Challenges of ensuring security when implementing new technologies.

• Critical impact of policy on technological integration and operational efficiency.

• Future of defense innovation through the lens of AI, security, and policy alignment.

Connect with Bryan Lane:

• Linkedin: Bryan Lane

Connect with Tyler Sweatt: 

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 66. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, host Tyler Sweatt is joined by Brigadier General Michael McGinley, Federal Account Executive at Google and Director of DoD's GigEagle Agile Talent Ecosystem Initiative. During this episode, Tyler and McGinley delve into how AI is being leveraged to transform talent management within the DoD, and McGinley discusses the potential of AI to bridge the gap between military and civilian expertise, offering insights into how this technology fosters a whole-of-nation approach to national security. By unlocking the creativity and strength of the American workforce, these initiatives can bolster defense readiness and operational effectiveness. Tune in to explore how AI is not just a tool, but a transformative force in redefining public service and national security.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• How AI is revolutionizing the identification and deployment of talent in defense.
• Exploring the integration of civilian and military expertise to enhance national security.
• Addressing challenges in adapting defense structures to leverage a diverse skill set.
• Envisioning the future of defense readiness through technological innovation.

Connect with Brig Gen Michael McGinley:

• LinkedIn: Michael McGinley

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

Episode 65. How do the capital allocators, technicians, government leaders, and operators take the country forward? In this special episode of All Quiet, Tyler joins ADM (ret) William H. McRaven, Matt Bigge (Partner, Crosslink Capital), and Shyam Sankar (CTO, Palantir) for the SCHOOLHOUSE Opening Night panel to discuss the profound impact of government policies, the spirit of entrepreneurship, and the lessons drawn from history on modern defense strategies. 

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Bridging Technology and Policy in Defense
• Cultural and Historical Influences on Defense Innovation
• Leadership Dynamics in Evolving Defense Organizations
• Future Prospects: Optimism in Technological and Generational Changes

Connect with Matt:

• LinkedIn: Matt Bigge

Connect with Shyam:

• Linkedin: Shyam Sankar

Connect with Tyler:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front

Episode 64. In this episode of All Quiet on the Second Front, Tyler Sweatt is joined by Kevin Larrabee, former Chief Data Officer of the US Army and now Head of Product at DataShapes AI and Deputy Commander, Canadian Army Doctrine and Training Centre (CADTC) COL Tyler Donnell of US Army North. Together, they delve into the transformative journey from traditional military roles to cutting-edge positions in data science and international defense strategy. They discuss the pivotal changes in battlefield technology, the critical need for multinational interoperability, and how their careers have adapted to meet the dynamic demands of modern warfare. Tune in as they explore the synthesis of operational experience and technological innovation, and share insights on preparing for the challenges of tomorrow's conflicts.

What’s Happening on the Second Front:

• Advancements in Data Science in Military Strategy
• Multinational Interoperability Challenges
• The Role of AI in Modern Warfare

Connect with Kevin Larrabee:

• LinkedIn: Kevin Larrabee

Connect with Tyler Donnell:

• LinkedIn: COL Tyler Donnell

Connect with Tyler Sweatt:

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt

• Website: Second Front