Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In this "Fake Recruiter Podcast" episode of HeadHunters NW, Shaylene speaks with Mike Petronella, a retired law enforcement professional and sales leader, about sophisticated job seeker scams that surged after he marked "open to work" on LinkedIn. Mike describes receiving highly realistic emails about a VP of Sales role at Zev Technologies—complete with role details—before scammers pressured him to pay for tiered resume/CV rewrites, using red flags like Gmail addresses and urgency.

Shaylene is also joined by Aaron Hutsell, a computer science professional who created GhostJob, a Chrome extension for LinkedIn that scans job posts and provides a trust score and evidence (e.g., real application paths, matching official company sources, generic "word salad," contradictions, repost context). Aaron emphasized independent verification and that any request to pay fees is a major warning sign.

FIND OUR GUESTS

Michael Petronella

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-petronella-698866151/

Aaron Hutsell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahut/

GhostJob and Hatched Pixel (Aaron Hutsell)

Hatched Pixel https://hatchedpixel.com

GhostJob: https://www.jobghost.io/

Chrome extension: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/ghostjob-ghost-job-detect/clbbopifmidceplphamfdfapgacgbhnd

How the GhostJob Trust Meter works: https://www.jobghost.io/how-trust-score-works

What is a ghost job?: https://www.jobghost.io/what-is-a-ghost-job

Contact: aaron@hatchedpixel.com

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In this HeadHunters NW podcast, Shaylene interviews Ibrahim Pataudi, co-founder and chief revenue officer of Armanet, a modern advertising platform built specifically for the firearms industry after Google, Meta, and other ad tech platforms restricted "dangerous goods" advertising.

Ibrahim explains how brands have been forced into a 2005-style media playbook with limited targeting and measurement, and how Armanet provides programmatic ads across 100+ firearms/outdoor sites, email options, and a creator marketplace with escrowed payments. He details Armanet's measurement capabilities, including anonymized Armanet IDs, conversion tracking, and incrementality testing via randomized holdouts to show true lift and ROI.

The discussion includes case studies, Armanet's 90% retention, industry growth implications, and industry events they attend. This episode should be required listening for marketers in the firearms and shooting industry.

Armanet Website: https://armanet.ai/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/armanet-adtech/

Twitter: https://x.com/ArmanetAds

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArmanetAds

Reach out to Ibrahim: ibrahim@armanet.ai

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In part two of the HeadHunters NW Podcast with Trent Marsh, the conversation covers how millennial leadership and shifting workplace expectations—remote work, commute tolerance, benefits, and a desire to understand "why"—are changing hiring, management, and brand marketing.

Shaylene and Trent discuss the reduced stigma around job changes, the need for employees to have agency, and how fear of failure can lead to ineffective marketing; effective brands must serve both current and future customers while allowing teams to test and learn.

Trent argues good marketing is omnidirectional, not just print or social media, citing Gun Talk as a model for multi-channel evolution. They also examine AI as a force multiplier for tasks and logic-checking rather than a replacement for human storytelling, relationships, and industry knowledge, noting growing challenges getting brands to support media with timely, informed communication.

Check out the latest article by Trent Marsh:

The New Old Guard in the Firearms Industry | Hunting Retailer

Riton Optics

Website: https://ritonoptics.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/riton-optics/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RitonOptics

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ritonusa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritonoptics/

Trent Marsh

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-marsh-40217956/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tmarsh83

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmarsh8364/

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

On this episode of the HeadHunters NW podcast, Shaylene welcomes longtime industry marketer and writer Trent Marsh of Riton Optics to discuss his article "The New Old Guard," published in Tactical Retailer and Hunting Retailer.

Marsh explains how FBI NICS background-check data shows an unprecedented multi-year decline after a surge from 2019 to 2020, followed by five consecutive negative years—something not seen from 2005–2019. He details historical election-driven cycles, calculates a shortfall versus projected growth, and explores contributing factors such as changing state gun-law dynamics, fatigue with panic buying, stockpiled collections, and reduced disposable income among younger buyers.

The episode sets up a two-part discussion on generational leadership transition and future marketing strategy.

Check out the latest article by Trent Marsh:

The New Old Guard in the Firearms Industry | Hunting Retailer

Riton Optics

Website: https://ritonoptics.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/riton-optics/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RitonOptics

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ritonusa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritonoptics/

Trent Marsh

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-marsh-40217956/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tmarsh83

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmarsh8364/

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In this episode, Shaylene talks with Jeff Stawiarski, co-president of ZEV Technologies, about an open Director of Operations role reporting directly to ZEV's co-presidents and why it's a critical position in the company's rebuild and growth. Based in ZEV's new Riverton, Utah facility following the move from Washington, this leader will help "get the simple things right," bring structure, revise layout and workflow for inflow/outflow, and drive daily communication, collaboration, planning, and execution across assembly, inventory, shipping, compliance, quality, and supply chain within the organization.

The role is designed for an A-player who can set direction (not wait for it) and help scale operations as ZEV expands production.. The episode also covers ZEV's investment in training, cross-training, and a compliance-first approach supported by an experienced regulatory team member.

If you are interested in this position, don't wait to reach out to Shaylene and learn more at shaylene@headhuntersnw.com

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In this episode, we interview Jack Jameson about his 20+ year career in the firearms industry and his role at BSF Barrels. Jack recounts starting in retail with Lowe's, moving to Bass Pro Shops corporate, then progressing through sales roles at Beretta (territory sales), Crimson Trace/AOB (national accounts), a brief stint at Faxon Firearms, and VP of Sales at Stag Arms/Aero Precision, emphasizing relationship-building and product knowledge.

He explains BSF Barrels (Blackstone Firearms) in Delavan, Wisconsin, founded in 2017 by owner Aaron after long lead times from other makers, and notes BSF's OEM focus (Weatherby, Savage, Henry) alongside growing consumer and retailer sales. Jack details BSF's patented roll-wrapped carbon fiber barrel process, caliber range, upcoming product expansion, new Sports South distribution, facility expansion, and hiring needs.

Jack is a textbook example of how to work your way up in this industry, and he invites people interested in working in the industry to contact him:

Contact Jack

  jackj@bsfbarrels.com

Website

https://www.bsfbarrels.com/

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In this HeadHunters NW podcast episode, I sit down with marketing professional Keith Kennedy to talk about his journey from the Marine Corps into marketing and his work with AI through his company, StratellisIQ. Keith explains how he began exploring AI around 2023, influenced by tools like Adobe Firefly and by seeing advanced defense-sector AI, and why he's focused on practical, outcome-driven AI for businesses.

He outlines key areas where AI can help—revenue and sales support, cost and time savings, customer experience, and process efficiency—emphasizing starting with goals and processes before choosing tools. He describes "human in the loop/on the loop/out of the loop," shares examples including AI-assisted sales outreach and automated warranty/RMA customer service, and argues AI will augment rather than replace people.

Contact Keith

info@stratellusiq.com

Website

www.stratellusiq.com

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw

Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast!

I'm Shaylene Keiner, founder, business owner, and highly sought after specialized consultant with the connections and influence you need in the highly regulated industries all focused on building America's future as the world leader.

As the secret weapon for my clients, I identify, recruit, and secure the most in-demand, unreachable talent they need to accomplish their goals.

I work for some of the most coveted companies in the industries I represent. There is a saying in my line of work, "you are either friend or food," there is no in between. You want the power of my connections working for you behind the scenes if you want to finish first!

Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep behind the veil of highly regulated industries and the people who accomplish the goals that make our industry great!

Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Our conversations go beyond the surface to uncover the fascinating insights that shape these vital sectors focused on building America's future as the world leader, while breaking down misconceptions and highlighting the rewarding career paths available.

Industries We Cover • Defense Manufacturing & Technology • Munitions Industries • Aerospace & Space Sectors • Intelligence & Cybersecurity Solutions • Artificial Intelligence Applications • Hardware & Software Development

Subscribe now and become part of our community exploring the fascinating stories and career opportunities in these dynamic industries!

In this episode, Shaylene visits with attorney Clay Cheshire, founder of Defense Industry General Counsel, about serving firearms and broader defense-industry clients who need outside general counsel. Clay explains his practice focuses on highly regulated businesses and the value of regulatory experience across agencies like ATF and the State Department, including support for software companies serving regulated clients or battlefield technologies.

They discuss what makes attorney-client relationships work, emphasizing frequent communication, non-transactional partnerships, and proactive planning to reduce cost and stress. Clay shares examples of strategic counsel around controversial but legal products and exit/retirement and generational succession planning. He warns that delaying legal involvement in deals, especially international, can lock in bad terms. They cover growing state-level regulation, efforts by gun control groups to create uncertainty for companies and investors, and a Second Circuit insurance coverage decision involving intentional-act exclusions. Clay advises treating counsel as a decision-making team member and shares how rewarding working in the firearms industry is for him.

Website: https://defenseindustrygc.com

Contact Information:

      Clay Cheshire

      clay@defenseindustrygc.com

      404.579.7084 (cell)

FIND US:

On the web: https://www.headhuntersnw.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeadHuntersNW/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headhuntersnw