Tesseract Podcast

Tesseract Podcast: Ideas to Actionable Innovation with Chief Master Sergeant Robert Berrier

In this episode, we sit down with CMSgt Robert Berrier, the Senior Enlisted Leader for HAF/A4 Deputy Chief of Staff, Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection. During this episode, we discussed his career journey, his current role at the Pentagon, and the key milestones that shaped his leadership.
This episode explores how innovations across A4 drive a culture of change and the potential consolidation of AFSCs, along with many other critical topics impacting the force. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on the evolution of logistics, the power of innovation, and what’s next for the Air Force.

Tesseract Podcast: Fueling the Future and Optimizing Air Force Energy with Mr. Roberto Guerrero

In this episode, we have the honor of speaking with Mr. Roberto Guerrero, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Operational Energy. With over three decades of experience in both military and civil service, Mr. Guerrero is at the forefront of efforts to optimize how the Air Force uses energy to power its global operations.
From his beginnings inspired by his father's love for aviation to becoming a seasoned aviator and former E-3 Sentry commander, his journey is filled with unique experiences and valuable lessons. He shares insights into his role, the importance of operational energy, and the innovative strategies being implemented to enhance efficiency and reduce risks.
Join us for an informative conversation with one of the leading experts in operational energy. 

Fireside Chat: Health of the Force with Maj Sean Freitag

We’re back after a short seasonal break, and we are kicking things off with an exciting conversation! This episode features host Master Sergeant Dakota Belcher, AFWERX Western Region Spark Cell Coordinator, and Tesseract LNO, sitting down with Maintenance Commander Major Sean Freitag. We talk about Major Freitag’s background, and his passion for innovation in the Air Force, and dive into the health of the force metrics—what it means, why it matters, and how we can all play a role in ensuring readiness and sustainability. From leadership lessons to practical insights, this episode is packed with real-world takeaways and fresh perspectives. Thanks for tuning in—we hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed the conversation!

LNO Fireside chat: Command and Control, Risk Reward in Innovation with Michael Moore

Join us as we chat with Master Sergeant Michael Moore from Honolulu, Hawaii. Michael recounts his path from joining the Air Force in 2010 as a Security Forces member to becoming the Commandant at the Pitsenbarger Airman Leadership School in Spangdahlem, Germany.
Michael shares stories from his career across bases like Osan, Kadena, and Spangdahlem, focusing on his efforts to drive innovation through simple yet effective process improvements. He emphasizes that innovation isn't just about technology but also about making everyday tasks more efficiently.
We explore the unique Heritage Hall at Pitsenbarger, filled with historical memorabilia, and hear about students' reactions to seeing their legacy. Michael discusses his current projects to enhance leadership training and integrate new tech in the schoolhouse.
Tune in for a conversation that highlights the importance of honoring our past while pushing for a better future in the Air Force.

LNO Fireside Chat: Dedication and Hard Lessons with Chris Anderson

Our host Nate had an insightful chat with Chris Anderson, the European Spark Sale Coordinator. Here are the highlights:
Chris shared his journey from aircraft maintenance to innovation leader.He discussed the challenges and successes in continuous process improvement (CPI).We learned about his impactful projects, like the bone conduction initiative.Chris’s story is a true eye-opening episode of dedication and hard lessons faced by innovators.
Catch the full conversation to get inspired!
#TesseractLNO #Innovation #AirForce #ChrisAnderson #FiresideChat #CPI

LNO Fireside Chat: Unprecedented Time for Innovation with Kevin Walton

Join us for another episode of the LNO Fireside Chat, featuring Lt Col Kevin Walton from the 52nd Maintenance Squadron. Stationed in the scenic Eifel region of Germany, Kevin discusses his role as a leader and his efforts to enhance the capabilities of the Air Force while improving the quality of life and effectiveness of our airmen. From his early days working on F-16s to leading strategic innovations at Air Mobility Command, Col Walton's journey highlights the critical impact of embracing change and fostering a culture where every airman's voice can lead to transformative improvements. This episode showcases the importance of innovation in today's unprecedented times.

Breaking Barriers and Driving Change with Tyler Jones

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Tesseract Podcast, where host Dan learns the story of Tyler Jones, an airman who championed innovation against all odds. Faced with the 'frozen middle,' Tyler's relentless pursuit to implement significant policy changes exemplifies the spirit of determination. Discover how his collaboration with the Tesseract team finally brought his visionary policy change to fruition, marking a significant milestone in fostering a culture of innovation within the Air Force. This episode is a tribute to the airmen who dare to challenge the status quo and the transformative power of persistence and teamwork.

Empowering Airmen and Pioneering the Future of Logistics with Mr. Dean Blake

In this episode of the Tesseract Podcast, Dan interviewed Mr. Dean Blake, technical director of the Headquarters Air Force A4L Directorate of Logistics. Mr. Blake brings a wealth of knowledge to the table with a 21-year career as an aircraft maintenance officer and significant experience in logistics information technology. He shared insights into his journey through the Air Force, emphasizing the crucial role of innovation and technology in enhancing Air Force logistics and readiness in the face of great power competition. Mr. Blake talked about the strategic importance of data-driven decision-making and the pivotal shift from focusing solely on efficiency to achieving effectiveness in logistics operations. Highlighting his work with the Basic Logistics Analytic Data Environment (BLADE) and the challenges of transitioning innovative pilot projects into sustained enterprise solutions, he offers a glimpse into the future of logistics IT in the Air Force. The conversation also touches on the power of airmen-driven innovation, the potential of modern software tools, and the importance of embracing a culture of continuous improvement. Mr. Blake's passion for fostering innovation and leveraging the tech-savviness of Air Force personnel across all ranks and roles shines through, making it clear that the path to maintaining agility and readiness in a rapidly evolving security environment lies in the hands of its most valuable asset: its airmen. #TesseractPodcast #AirForceInnovation #MilitaryLogistics #AirmenDriven #DataAnalytics #BLADE #TechInDefense #Adaptability #StrategicReadiness #FutureOfLogistics #EmpowermentInUniform

Giving Airman a Voice with Retired General Larry O. Spencer

In this episode of the Tesseract Podcast, Retired General Larry Spencer shares his journey from a young man, uncertain about an Air Force career, to becoming the vice chief of staff of the United States Air Force. His story begins in Washington D.C., where a chance encounter with an Air Force recruiter dramatically changed the trajectory of his life. Spencer recounts how he transitioned from playing football to joining the Air Force, fueled by a recruiter's promise of a future that combined his passion for sports with military service. His candid reflection on the lack of mentors during his early years, his initial confusion about his career path, and his eventual decision to enlist paint a picture of a young man searching for a purpose.

LNO Fireside Chat: Strategic Thinking

Join us on the latest LNO Fireside Chat as we dive into the world of innovation with our special guest, Matthew D Connelly! In this episode, we cover everything from the importance of clear and respectful communication to overcoming technical hiccups. Matthew, a part-time innovator in PACAF and a full-time munitions specialist, shares insights from his rich experience in innovation and continuous process improvement. Hear about Matthew's unconventional career journey, from a rocky start in the Air Force to becoming a thought leader in innovation, and the challenges and triumphs of bringing big ideas to life within the military framework. From Osan Air Base to leading Spark Tank competitions, Matthew's story is a testament to the power of persistence, creativity, and the drive to make a difference. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and get a behind-the-scenes look at innovation within the Air Force. Whether you're interested in personal growth, professional development, or the mechanics of making big ideas happen, this episode is packed with insights, challenges, and the unyielding spirit of innovation. Don't miss this journey through the highs and lows of transforming vision into reality, right here on the LNO Fireside Chat!

LNO Fireside Chats: Culture of Continuous Improvement with Mary Lou Moore

In the recent LNO fireside chat hosted by Amanda and Jackson, the discussion centered on the innovative strategies and challenges faced by the military in adapting to the changing strategic landscape. Mary Lou Moore, from the AFMC CDX office, shared insights into her work, emphasizing a human-centered approach to implementing change. During this episode, she highlighted the importance of continuous improvement and innovation through training in methodologies like green belts and black belts, agile design thinking, and the Spark Tank campaign. The conversation goes deep into the Air Force's need for adaptation to remain competitive and capable in the current strategic environment. She stressed the significance of focusing on people, understanding resistance to change, and fostering cross-collaboration to achieve success. Amanda and Jackson dive into tools like Microsoft Office apps and platforms for sharing innovations as critical resources for facilitating this change.
This episode isn't just a discussion; it's a call to action for airmen and guardians alike to explore, engage, and excel in their roles, armed with the knowledge and support to make a difference. Mary's message is clear: Change may be hard, but with the right approach and a focus on people, the sky's the limit.

LNO Fireside Chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success: Innovation through Automation

In this fresh installment of our Fireside Chat series, we sit down with MSgt Heikell Perez, Supply troop from Biddle Air National Guard Base, who brings a unique perspective to the innovation ecosystem.
Hosted by Nate, this episode dives into MSgt Perez's journey, capturing his innate drive to push boundaries, innovate, and streamline processes. With a career marked by a relentless pursuit of improvement, he shares how his "spark" to innovate has ignited significant changes. Listen in as MSgt Perez discusses the challenges and triumphs of integrating innovation into military operations, providing valuable insights and inspiration for others looking to make a difference through innovation. This conversation is not just about the successes but the mindset and motivation behind transforming everyday tasks into opportunities for progress.

Lunar Search and Rescue with MSgt Ben Johnis and MSgt Bon Strout (Ret)

Welcome to the new season of the Tesseract Podcast. This year, we're thrilled to introduce our new hosts, Chloe and Dan.
To kick off this exciting new season, Chloe sits down with two remarkable guests: MSgt Benjamin Johnis and Retired MSgt Bon Strout, both SERE specialists in the US Air Force. Join us for an inspiring journey as MSgt Johnis shares his story, from his work as a Ph.D. graduate student at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) to his groundbreaking contributions at the Goddard Space Flight Center. From writing papers to presenting revolutionary ideas for lunar space equipment, MSgt Johnis and Mr. Bon discuss the power of innovation, Spark cells, SBIR, and their contributions shaping the future of space exploration.
Together, Chloe and MSgt Johnis explore the importance of setting oneself up for success and the transformative impact of looking deep within to achieve one's goals. Gain insights into overcoming challenges and pushing boundaries.
Join us and get inspired to innovate in Season 3 of the Tesseract Podcast. Get ready as we unlock the power of innovation together!
For mentorship or questions please reach out via Linkedin to : https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-johnis/
If you want to learn more about Lunar Search Equipment: https://1drv.ms/f/s!Aj0GKtgK3-8pl8EoA40pi_puC5kdOg?e=KpH98J

LNO Fireside Chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success - Pushing the Boundaries

During this episode of the LNO Fireside Chat, we spoke with Dakota Belcher and Joshua Nash, distinguished innovators and driving forces behind the AFWERX programs and PACAF SPARK cells, respectively. Through their perspectives, we explored the transformative impact of Tesseract on their initiatives, shedding light on the ways it has supported and refined their innovative efforts. Throughout our discussion, Dakota and Joshua shared their insights into the challenges they have faced, the milestones they have achieved, and the goals they have set for the future within the innovation ecosystem. Join us as we uncover the behind-the-scenes challenges and aspirations driving the evolution of military innovation, pushing the boundaries!

LNO Fireside Chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success R2JP

This is the last fireside chat episode of the seven Aether Sprint semi-finalists!
Project R2JP (Rays to Jet Power) introduces a decentralized, green, and sustainable energy source! This system is not only environmentally friendly but also operationally efficient, offering significant savings in fuel consumption and logistics. By replacing traditional generators, R2JP halves pallet requirements and can fully pay for itself in less than five months. Additionally, the system is easy to deploy, requiring minimal manpower and maintenance.Our host Nathan has a deep conversation with Raymond Hill and Jet Nesle on about the effectiveness of Rays to Jet Power in various trials by the USAF, showing potential to entirely eliminate fuel use in moderate climates and achieve significant reductions in extreme temperatures. These intelligent systems can self-diagnose, providing warnings to Airmen, and are designed to be corrosion and EMP resistant. The system's flexibility allows it to be prepositioned for extended periods with minimal power loss, further enhancing its practicality for sustained operations. R2JP has proven its utility in diverse applications, from powering medical tents and water purification systems to supporting mission control towers, thereby showcasing its potential as a transformative solution in military operations!

LNO Fireside chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success Project Weapon

In this gripping Fireside Chat, Ryan Amador kicks things off by sharing the origin of their idea and the trials encountered when building the initial prototype of his team project. From bureaucratic roadblocks to the intricate web of vendor interactions, they reveal the untold story behind their relentless pursuit of innovation. Tune in and discover the project's ultimate mission: streamlining equipment logistics and reducing the logistical footprint. Plus, gain insight into the challenges they've faced while navigating bureaucratic channels and securing approvals for integrating cutting-edge components into nuclear-certified machinery. This Fireside Chat is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, problem-solving, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Don't miss your chance to be inspired and informed by these remarkable individuals who are changing the game one innovative idea at a time.

LNO Fireside Chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success Project CLAWS

In this episode of LNO Fireside Chat, host Amanda Dennis delves into an engaging conversation with the innovative minds behind CLAWS - the Compact Loading Adapter Winch System designed for C-130 aircraft. Joshua Rogers, Taylor Mogford, and their team, currently semi-finalists in the Aether Sprint competition, share insights into their groundbreaking project aimed at enhancing loading efficiency and operational safety for the Air Force. They explore the challenges of streamlining the loading process, the journey of their project towards Air Force-wide scalability, and the critical role of storytelling, mentorship, and innovation in driving team engagement and project adoption. Discover how CLAWS is set to transform aircraft loading practices, promising significant time savings and operational improvements, and learn about the team's vision for the future of Air Force loading operations.

LNO Fireside Chat Balancing Risk and Reward in Project Management with Dr. Ethan Eagle & Dan Ward

Get ready for an electrifying LNO Fireside Chat with Dr. Ethan Eagle and Dan Ward! Join us as these dynamic guests take center stage to unravel the in a deep conversation about project management and innovation. 💡 In this exhilarating episode, Dr. Ethan Eagle and Dan Ward share their expertise on navigating the intricate landscape of risk and reward in project management. Discover groundbreaking strategies and insights that will revolutionize your approach to tackling challenges and seizing opportunities. 🚀 Dr. Ethan Eagle, a renowned expert in the innovation ecosystem, brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, offering invaluable perspectives on how to effectively balance risk and reward in today's dynamic environment. Meanwhile, Dan Ward, a visionary thinker and innovation guru, shares his unconventional yet highly effective methods for driving innovation and achieving breakthrough results. 🤝 Join us for a conversation that will leave you inspired and empowered to take your project management skills to new heights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the business and transform your approach to project management forever. Tune in now and prepare to be amazed!

LNO Fireside Chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success Mobile Munitions Production Platform

Embark on the latest Fireside Chat journey with Philip as he talks to all Aether Sprint Semi-finalists. 
Introducing Cayla Larson and Harris Hamburg as they explain how traditional munitions production is cumbersome and slow, posing a mismatch with the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) environment. After encountering inefficiencies during an ACE exercise, the team identified a significant opportunity for improvement. Encouraged by positive feedback and strong momentum, they submitted their innovative idea to Aether Sprint. They are now actively working on actualizing it into an MVP (Minimal Viable Product), a move set to revolutionize munitions production. Anticipated benefits include significant manpower reduction and streamlined field operations, showcasing a leap forward in munitions.
 

LNO Fireside Chat: A Journey from Grassroots to Success Panhandle Panthers

In this episode, we talked to the third team competing for the Aether sprint. Tyler and Andrew explained their game-changing initiative—consolidating multiple pieces of equipment into a robust, portable kit for rapid and agile deployment. The discussion centers around the benefits of using this kit in an ACE environment deployment, significantly reducing space requirements and creating a smaller footprint.
The team discusses the ambitious goal of enterprise-wide implementation and how larger units can leverage their budgets for efficient kit adoption. Hosted by MSgt Barry, the chat emphasizes the importance of advocacy, and identifying key contacts for project success.
Tune in for practical insights on navigating challenges and applauding dedicated efforts. Streamline your deployment knowledge today! #LNOFiresideChat #EfficiencyInnovation 🎙️. Watch the full video in YouTube in the link below.
https://youtu.be/viHoWHuDhlA

LNO Fireside Chat: A journey from Grassroots to Success F-35 WMS Cover

During this installment of the LNO Fireside Chat, our host Nate embarks on another journey from grassroots to success with the F-35 WMS Cover project. Technical Sergeants Emil Wodicka takes us behind the scenes to discuss the current status of their groundbreaking product manufacturing and validation process. In this engaging conversation, the team shares their progress, highlighting the successful completion of multiple prototypes. The next phase on the horizon is the validation process, scheduled to kick off at the end of January. TSgt Emil underscores the importance of understanding user needs and prioritizing user-friendliness, emphasizing their commitment to creating a product that truly serves its purpose. This discussion is a testament to their motivation for creating tangible, positive change.

Rapid and Sustained Organizational Change with (Ret.) Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria

In this episode of the Tesseract podcast, James sits down with (Ret.) Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria to explore the profound transformations that shaped the U.S. Air Force, particularly in the wake of the September 11th attacks. Lt. Gen. Silveria offers invaluable perspectives on the rapid and sustained organizational change that unfolded before and after 9/11, shedding light on how the Air Force evolved strategically, tactically, and operationally in response to this pivotal event.
Gen. Silveria talks about his experiences and as the conversation unfolds, he shares about his critical role in strengthening organic security capabilities. Beyond airpower, this role expanded his purview into broader security cooperation efforts. The episode also highlights his insights into inter-agency cooperation, demonstrating the importance of collaboration among various government entities.
Discover the logistical intricacies of change and gain a deeper understanding of how (Ret.) Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria's remarkable journey has contributed to the Air Force's adaptability and success in navigating an ever-evolving landscape, from pre-9/11 to the era of Great Power Competition.

Amanda Whalen & Diana Prenoveau Plan Qulliq (RCAF innovation)

Join us on this exciting Tesseract Podcast Episode where we talk about aerospace innovation with, Amanda Whalen and Diana Prenoveau, leading the charge in the Royal Canadian Air Force's (RCAF) Plan Qulliq initiative.
Amanda and Diana are instrumental figures in the RCAF's mission to transform its operations through cutting-edge innovation. In this episode, they share their inspiring journey and insights into how Plan Qulliq is shaping the future of the RCAF. Tune in as we explore their experiences, successes, and the collaborative spirit that drives Plan Qulliq's mission to elevate the RCAF's capabilities to new heights.
Subscribe now to stay updated on the latest episodes and explore more fascinating stories of innovation across various industries.

Enabling Exceptional Software Solutions with Matthew Nelson

In this episode “Enabling Exceptional Software Solutions with Matthew Nelson” your host James dove into the world of cutting-edge software solutions for the Air Force. Throughout this engaging conversation, James and Matthew explore the intricacies of developing software that powers the Air Force. Matthew's remarkable journey, from his EWI fellowship to his current roles as an Air Force Reserve Lieutenant Colonel and his notable contributions to Kessel Run and BESPIN, offers invaluable insights into the challenges and innovations of his career.
Tune in to uncover the vital role of exceptional mobile and web software solutions in enhancing Air Force operations and maintaining a technological edge. Join us and gain a deeper understanding of the driving forces behind the evolution of military software solutions.

Advancing Airman Innovation with Technical Sergeant Daniel Kosty

In this episode, James talked with Technical Sergeant Dan Kosty, a Tesseract Core Member and Program Manager with our Concept Integrations Branch. They discussed his experience as a C-17 Maintainer, Co-Founder of Tron, and working within the Innovation Ecosystem.

Testing the Mission Generation Group with Col. Bary Flack

In this episode, James talked with Colonel Bary Flack, commander of the 436th Mission Generation Group at Dover AFB. We talked about how the new organizational structure - the MGG - intends to unite work centers under the common mission of power projection.

Tesseract Summit 2023: Senior Leader Panel

In this episode, James talked with Ms. Brown, HAF/A4L Deputy, Col. Hartle, HAF/A4L Associate Director, and Mr. Malby, HAF/A4PA IT Specialist and Innovator. We talked about the unique set of circumstances that innovation brings to the traditional hierarchy of a military staff and their experiences with overcoming hurdles and scaling to the enterprise.

Project Madagascar with SrA Jackson Wynn & Team

In this episode, James talked with grassroots innovators SrA Jackson Wynn, TSgt Aaron Garcia, and TSgt Adam Funderburgh. We discussed their idea, Project Madagascar, and how it supports the Air Force’s next-generation warehouse. We also talked about being an innovator at the field level and prototyping with almost zero cost.
Team Email: 7LRS.spark.hydra@us.af.mil
Application Link: https://bmswens.github.io/Inventory-Management/
*Note: This podcast was recorded at LOA '23, we apologize for any background noise.*

Acquisitions in Air Force Innovation with Chris Shaheen

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Shaheen, a Contracting Officer at Air Force Material Command. Chris talks about the duties and responsibilities of his position as well as roadblocks faced by an Airforce contracting/acquisition specialist. He discusses Small Business Innovation Research (SBIRs) and the plethora of systems and tools that exist for different organizations to fund innovation.
*Note: This podcast was processed through an AI tool to help remove background noise. Some may still remain.*

Resiliency, Redundancy, and Operator Requirements with Maj. Kyle “Gouge” McAlpin

In this episode, James talked with Major Kyle “Gouge” McAlpin, C-17 pilot and ML Project Manager at the DAF-MIT AI Accelerator. We talked about the difficulty in transitioning solutions from one domain to another in the Air Force and the broader DoD, especially when AI/ML is involved, and how operators have extremely nuanced requirements for the tools they use.