Micro Journeys: The Pulse of What’s Next

About Micro Journeys: The Pulse of What’s Next

Welcome to Micro Journeys, the podcast that puts you on the front lines of U.S. defense innovation—one remarkable story at a time. Hosted by Daniel Marrujo of Trusted Strategic Solutions, this series delivers a behind-the-scenes look at the trailblazers who’ve shaped the national security landscape through microelectronics, advanced technology, and strategic leadership. From national security engagements and global conflict zones to cutting-edge technologies and federal innovation hubs, each episode dives into the pivotal experiences of defense insiders, military veterans, technologists, and policymakers who’ve helped the United States stay ahead of the curve. Guests include elite voices ranging from elite military brass to programs such as those leading the microelectronics commons initiative which is leading a billion dollar Department of Defense investments. Whether it’s fielding AI-integrated defense systems, reverse-engineering critical chips for legacy aircraft, or standing up national policy at the White House, these are the real stories of people solving America’s toughest problems. In every episode, you’ll get deep technical storytelling from inside the U.S. defense apparatus, powerful leadership lessons forged under pressure, and rare strategic insight into areas like semiconductor policy, digital twin technology, quantum and cybersecurity, and public-private collaboration. It’s an authentic look at the people behind the programs—those driving the future of military readiness, defense technology, and the U.S. technology ecosystem. If you are in aerospace, dual use technology or worldwide technology investments, or just want a rare window into how the U.S. prepares for what's next, Micro Journeys is your go-to listen. Micro Journeys with Daniel Marrujo. A Trusted Strategic Solutions Original Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Publisher

Trusted Strategic Solutions

Category

business · science · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Apr 2025

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

87 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Colorado State’s Mission - Turning Research Into Real Solutions

   In this episode of Micro Journeys Inside Access, host Daniel Marrujo catches up with Odaro Huckstep, Director of Defense Engagement at Colorado State University (CSU), to talk about the university's engagement at African Lion 2026. Odaro explains how CSU is working to bridge academic research with fielded military work using the university's drone research center. He walks us through the university's Rapid Prototyping Lab and shares how the facility and drone center are already supporting SETAF-AF's interests. The conversation also digs into the "Valley of Death," and the challenge of getting new systems fielded. What used to be a stall point has shifted with many of the roadblocks cleared. CSU initiatives are at the forefront of that shift. By embedding researchers directly in field exercises like African Lion, it's moving technology from concept to warfighter faster than ever before. What You'll Discover in This Episode: [00:43] How Odaro and the defense engagement department at Colorado State University are aligning campus research with national security priorities. [01:53] Odaro introduces Chris Robertson and John Mizia and explains how together they’re bringing drone center and Rapid Prototyping Lab expertise to CTAF. [05:14] How Colorado State is working toward rapid prototyping capability that could reach the tactical edge via C-130. [10:07] The drone application ranges and how the CSU research team is harnessing the technology for either search and rescue or combat missions, [12:11] Programs like SBIR, STTR, STRATFI, and TACFI are shortening the "Valley of Death" challenge by bridging research funding and fielded technology. [19:53] The importance of the CSU team field testing in Morocco at African Lion. Let’s Connect Daniel Marrujo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-marrujo/) Learn more about TSS: https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/ (https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

2. 

   2 Oct 2026

   Real Time 3D Printed Autonomous Systems for Irregular Warfare

   In this episode of Micro Journeys Inside Access, host Daniel Marrujo speaks with Private First Class David Pomeroy at African Lion 2026 about an amazing piece of technology they are developing to keep soldiers out of harm’s way while breaching a difficult situation. Throughout the conversation, PFC Pomeroy explains how the unit built an off-road drone, detailing the design and intended functionality. The episode dives into the drone’s capabilities and explains how, when paired with autonomous vehicles, it can help soldiers in a tough spot. With this innovative tech, PFC Pomeroy’s team hopes to eliminate operator risk and operator faults to keep soldiers out of the breach and safe. The prototype design hinges on advancing technology and basic principles. Built on a repurposed RC car with a 3D-printed frame and rail system, the device is designed to carry explosive charges to a wire obstacle, allowing soldiers to conduct a breach from a safe distance. The RC car serves as the base that holds the 3D-printed railings and their connectors. Right now, the device is best suited for mechanized units and still needs manual operation. but the idea is to mass-produce the drones and send them out on separate missions. What You'll Discover in This Episode: [00:53] David Pomeroy introduces the drone and explains its functionality and intended purpose. [01:22] Pomeroy and Dan talk about the drone’s design, highlighting the RC car and 3D-printed Picatinny rail. [02:22] Pomeroy explains where the drone can be used how it can help mechanized units or people with Humvees. [03:14] Pomeroy discusses how the drone could eventually work alongside other autonomous and unmanned systems observed during African Lion 2026. [03:39] The Army is adapting with new technologies using drones and unmanned vehicles in diverse environments. [04:05] Pomeroy explains that AI isn’t taking jobs from soldiers; it’s enhancing their safety with autonomous solutions. Let’s Connect Daniel Marrujo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-marrujo/) Learn more about TSS: https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/ (https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

3. 

   30 Sept 2026

   When the Map Runs Out": Lt. Gen. Beagle, Jr. (Ret.) on Leading Through Uncertainty

   In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo speaks with Lieutenant General Milford H. Beagle, Jr. (U.S. Army, Retired) to discuss his book, When the Map Runs Out, his 35-year Army career capped by command of the Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth, and the leadership lessons he carried throughout it all. Drawing on his experiences, he unpacks what it takes to become a leader and what it means to follow when uncertainty is inevitable. He tells Dan about his time at Ranger School, his experience serving two tours with the 10th Mountain Division, and the coaching work he’s doing post-retirement. When Dan asks about the inspiration behind his book, Lt. Gen. Beagle, Jr. (Ret.) explains his passion for leadership and the desire to speak on it from a different perspective. He shares a pattern he observed while commanding at Fort Leavenworth that led him to realize just how many senior officers were struggling with uncertainty. He compared their experience to a map running out, explaining that when plans and frameworks stop matching the terrain in front of the leader, deeper problems arise. The map metaphor became the foundation of his book. Throughout its pages, he shares his solution for finding clarity and the tools leaders need to move forward: leaning on peers, staying honest, and anchoring decisions to purpose rather than rank or title. What You'll Discover in This Episode [02:29] — The pattern of leading in uncertainty despite decades of combat experience that inspired the book [11:02] — A single 40-minute conversation with a battalion commander early in his career taught Lt. Gen. Beagle, Jr. (Ret.) that leadership happens in moments, not rank [17:22] — Leading at scale, from a 30-person platoon to a 1,200-person battalion, forced a shift from doing everything personally to building trust in a team [39:37] — Why his focus post-retirement is combining 35 years of practitioner experience with a doctorate-level academic perspective to help leaders find clarity in uncertainty [44:44] — The Army's next leadership challenge is preparing leaders to integrate AI into decision-making as organizational complexity accelerates [47:00] — Lt. Gen. Beagle, Jr. (Ret.) argues AI can't be fully compartmentalized Let's Connect Daniel Marrujo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-marrujo/) Learn more about TSS: https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/ (https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Who has been a guest on Micro Journeys: The Pulse of What’s Next

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Jonny Pellish
• Dr Dan Janies
• Thomas Sonderman
• Dave "Trashman" Hicks
• Tsu-Jae King Liu

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 29 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

44

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact Micro Journeys: The Pulse of What’s Next

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

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