Student Entrepreneur 101

Episode 52: Innovation in Defense Tech- Key Insights for Entrepreneurs and Emerging Leaders with Rahul Singh

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Student Entrepreneur 101!  Tune in to this episode to hear from Rahul Singh, Managing Partner at Dual Use Ventures and Chief Growth Officer at defense tech startup: Hybron Technologies.  Rahul started his career in the Marine Corps and then went on to earn degrees from UCLA and USC. He’s worked at Amazon identifying innovation at the corporate level and he’s worked at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) connecting defense ecosystems with technology startups, VC's, and university research in Southern California.  If you're ready to launch your career in defense innovation, our conversation is packed with the actionable insights you need to get started. Tune in to our conversation and listen to Rahul share key insights on:  - Dual-use technology and the defense tech investment landscape - Key challenges and opportunities that dual-use startups face- how to avoid common pitfalls and Rahul’s take on winning startup strategy in today’s defense tech ecosystem - Why engaging mission partners early and often is critical to a startup’s success - The importance of finding your champions when engaging with different government organizations   - The role of universities in defense innovation   And more! This episode is your ultimate guide to navigating the defense tech industry, building key relationships, and transforming bold ideas into real-world solutions. Let's dive right in!

Episode 51: From Space Systems Command to Startup Strategy- Navigating Space Security with Kevin Plascencia

Hey everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Student Entrepreneur 101!  Tune in to this episode to hear from Kevin Plascencia, the founding Chief of Staff for the Space Systems Integration Office at Space Systems Command. Kevin previously taught aerospace studies at UCLA as an assistant professor and has experience evaluating startups for Space Force investment. Today, Kevin is a Business Development Strategist for the space security startup: True Anomaly. Tune in to our conversation and listen to Kevin share key insights on:  - Current national security challenges we face in space - The key to success for startups in space tech - Applications of space systems in our everyday lives - The importance of increasing workforce diversity in the industry   And more!  Feel free to connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-plascencia-2028637a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-plascencia-2028637a/]

Episode 50: Moon Missions, Mars Landers, and Space Startups with Dr. Leon Alkalai

Hey everyone! Tune in to this episode to hear from Dr. Leon Alkalai, the founder and CEO of Mandala Space Ventures– a venture fund and studio supporting startups in the emerging space economy. Leon earned his PhD from UCLA and established his career at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where he conducted research and later became responsible for the capture leadership of the GRAIL mission to the Moon and the INSIGHT lander on Mars.  In this episode, you’ll get to learn more about:  Leon’s incredible journey from his groundbreaking work at JPL to launching Mandala Space Ventures; how bold risks drive innovation and unlock new advancements in space technology and exploration; learn exciting opportunities shaping the future of the space industry; and gain valuable insights and advice to help you launch your entrepreneurial journey!  You can connect with Leon and learn more about Mandala Space Ventures by visiting their website! Website: https://mandalaspaceventures.com/ [https://mandalaspaceventures.com/]

Episode 49: From University to Industry: Advice on launching your career with UCLA Alumni

Hey everyone! Tune in to this episode to hear from co-founders Alex Kroll and Brandon Florian, two UCLA alumni and aerospace professionals. Currently working on stealth-mode aerospace startup Aero.Grid, which is reshaping aerial cargo mobility- Alex and Brandon share valuable insights for current students. Consider this episode a career guide—packed with strategies, inspiration, and practical advice to help you navigate your professional journey with confidence. Alex Kroll, is a former Air Force Test Pilot with over 2,500 flight hours and extensive experience with advanced propulsion systems. He is now the Chief Strategy Officer of Grid.Aero. Brandon Florian, an aerospace and defense professional with 20+ years of experience, including leadership roles at Northrop Grumman and Starburst Aerospace. Brandon has spearheaded accelerator programs for international space agencies and is now the Chief Commercial Officer at Grid.Aero.  What you can expect to learn from our conversation: The importance of mentorship: Here we discuss how to identify and cultivate mentorships that grow with you throughout your career We also talk about the importance of building experience and networking: Alex and Brandon share tips on how to leverage your network, say yes to new opportunities, and demonstrate your interest through meaningful projects and work. Our conversation also focuses on the reality of the entrepreneurial journey: How facing rejection, embracing trial and error, and getting market feedback early are essential for any startup journey. This episode is packed with actionable advice and value, so let’s dive in and set you on the path to success! You can connect with Alex and Brandon on LinkedIn! Alex Kroll: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-kroll-750a0066/]  Brandon Florian: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-florian-mba/]

Episode 48: The Entrepreneurial Journey- Real Talk with Matthew Semegran

Hey everyone! Tune in to this episode to hear from Matthew Semegran, a seasoned entrepreneur with a dynamic career journey. From art dealing to jet sales, scaling a cleaning company to property management and e-commerce – Matt’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention.  He’s here to share the lessons learned from his unique path, so tune in to our conversation to learn: how success looks different for every entrepreneur—and why there’s not one ‘right way’ to do it; the importance of adaptability and wearing many hats as an entrepreneur; how cash management is time management—and why mastering tradeoffs is essential in the early days of building your business; the importance of embracing uncertainty; why acting despite fear is what truly makes a difference; and more! You can find Matthew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msemegran/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/msemegran/]