In this episode, Adam chats with Raj Shah about his diverse journey in aviation and beyond. They discuss Raj's transition from the Ivy League to the Air National Guard, his early military tech experiences, and his shift to entrepreneurship in cybersecurity. The conversation covers the founding of the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and its role in linking Silicon Valley with the Pentagon. They also touch on military budget strategies, balancing legacy systems with new tech, and future cost reductions. Raj wraps up by sharing insights on returning to flying and his venture with Shield Capital, offering advice on finding purpose after military service.

(0:16) Introduction and overview of Raj Shah

(2:31) Discussion on Raj's book and aviation background

(5:26) Raj's journey from Ivy League to Air National Guard

(8:18) Early military technology experiences

(14:56) Raj's transition to entrepreneurship in cybersecurity

(16:20) Founding the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)

(19:25) Bridging Silicon Valley with the Pentagon

(23:28) DIU's evolution and mission impact

(25:12) Military budget allocations and support for ground troops

(27:43) Balancing legacy and new technology in the military

(29:10) Future of cost reductions in military tech

(30:09) Raj's return to flying and Shield Capital venture

(34:09) Finding purpose after military service

(35:39) Final thoughts and contact information