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Defense Mavericks

Defense Mavericks

Welcome to Defense Mavericks, the podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government. Join us as we dive into authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds, offering a fresh perspective on how to gain an unfair advantage through the adoption of new, emerging technology. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge, education, and best practices you need to shorten the learning curve toward government transformation.

CDAO:
https://www.ai.mil/

Tradewinds AI:
https://www.tradewindai.com/

Recent Episodes

Nov. 19, 2024

Why Smart GovCon Bidders Are Turning to AI with Alex Cohen

Can AI help you bid on more government contracts? In this week’s episode, Ryan Connell sits down with Alex Cohen, an AI expert and founder of GovPro AI. Alex is on a mission to help small and medium-sized contractors streaml…
Nov. 12, 2024

How Blockchain is Revolutionizing Manufacturing at AFRL with Keith Scheffler

This week, Ryan Connell is joined by Keith Scheffler from Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to discuss the role that blockchain plays in their manufacturing division. Keith dives into the evolution and broader application…
Nov. 5, 2024

Mastering SharePoint & Self-Branding with “Mr. SharePoint” Therman Trotman

This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Therman Trotman, a.k.a. "Mr. SharePoint," to talk about the powerful ways SharePoint can transform workflows and enhance team efficiency. Therman shares his journey from the Bronx to be…
Oct. 29, 2024

Human-Centric Autonomy for Defense with Scott Sanders

This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Scott Sanders, Chief Growth Officer of Forterra, to talk about the advancements and challenges of integrating autonomous systems in defense and industrial sectors. Scott shares his insi…
Oct. 22, 2024

Data Management & AI Readiness in Intelligence with Lori Wade

This week, Ryan Connell sits down with Lori Wade, Chief Data Officer for the Intelligence Community, to talk about the pivotal role of quality data in driving AI and emerging technologies in the IC. Lori shares her insights …
Oct. 15, 2024

Building Cybersecurity Ecosystems in the DoD with Chris Hughes

This week, Ryan Connell sits down with cybersecurity expert Chris Hughes, CEO of Aquia, a veteran-owned cloud and cybersecurity digital services firm. Chris brings two decades of experience from the federal IT space, sharing…

About the Host

Ryan Connell Profile Photo

Ryan Connell

Host

Ryan Connell is the Director of Strategic Acquisition Operations in the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office. His mission is to support AI acquisition policy, AI experimentation, and the Tradewinds Solution Marketplace.