Episode Description

Today on All Quiet, Tyler cracks a beer with James Cross, the managing director of Franklin Templeton and one of the co-founders of the Silicon Valley Defense Group (SVDG). They advocate for startups by explaining how current policy and the interest of the primes favors small businesses, as well as discussing the importance of visible leadership by organizations like the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and James’ approach to venture capital. The two round out the show by offering up some policy changes that could help startups scale, and with James explaining why he wants to end his career in education, developing thought leadership and curriculum to guide the next generation of defense leaders to success.‍‍

What’s Happening on the Second Front

• Explaining SVDG’s top national security company rankings
• Response to the leadership deficit in defense innovation
• Policy recommendations to help support startups
• Positive, exciting and scary trends we’re seeing on Capitol Hill 
• James’ ambitions to teach after his time with the SVDG

Connect with James

• LinkedIn: James Cross
• Website: Franklin Templeton

Connect with Tyler

• LinkedIn: Tyler Sweatt