04At just nineteen, Onkar Singh Batra is redefining what it means to lead in aerospace.
As founder and CEO of Apolink, a YC-backed startup building a 24/7 Internet for satellites, he's tackling one of space's most complex challenges; eliminating communication dead zones in low Earth orbit.

In this episode, Onkar shares how he went from launching satellites in high school to leading a Silicon Valley space-tech company, what he's learned about leadership before his 20th birthday, and why true innovation in aerospace comes from those willing to think differently.

"You can't go at it alone. Space forces you to be a team player."

This conversation isn't just about technology.
It's about the next generation of aerospace leadership — visionaries who value mission over pedigree, teamwork over ego, and impact over age.

Inside this episode:
– How Apolink is building the always-on communication layer for low Earth orbit
– What it takes to earn credibility as a young founder in aerospace
– The funding and focus behind YC's newest space startup
– How leadership evolves when you're managing engineers twice your age
– Why slowing down and reconnecting with nature cured his founder burnout
– What "the next frontier of connectivity" means for the future of aerospace operations

If you're in aerospace, defense, or satellite communications, this episode is a look at the kind of leadership and innovation that will shape the industry's future.

Connect with Onkar Singh Batra
https://apolink.space
https://www.instagram.com/ionkarbatra
http://linkedin.com/in/ionkarbatra

Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

Katherine welcomes Jim Rimay, President of MilDef US, a systems integrator and full-spectrum provider specializing in rugged IT for the most demanding military and government environments.

With Swedish roots and a growing U.S. presence, MilDef is bridging two worlds, bringing Nordic collaboration and balance to the fast-paced American defense market. Jim shares how cultural integration, customization, and a "win-win" mindset are driving MilDef's expansion and redefining what it means to lead in defense technology.

"No lone wolf out here is going to make it. What we're selling is a whole company approach to supporting the customer." — Jim Rimay

This conversation goes beyond products and procurement. It's about people, culture, and the kind of leadership that builds lasting partnerships in the defense industry.

Inside this episode:
– How MilDef balances standard COTS products with rapid customization
– Why collaboration between engineers and sales teams drives better solutions
– How Swedish 'Fika' and wellness culture are shaping U.S. operations
– What Jim looks for when hiring BD managers ("people who talk in we statements, not I")
– The biggest mistake BD managers make — and how to avoid it
– Why listening is the most underrated sales skill in defense
– MilDef's expansion across U.S. regional facilities and new strategic partnerships

If you work in defense, recruiting, or technology, this episode is a reminder that real differentiation comes from trust, culture, and a commitment to building together.

Connect with Jim Rimay
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrimay/
https://mildef.com

Connect with Katherine Jerald
http://www.elraysearch.com

Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

You can now follow mission critical on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MissionCriticalSearch

In a time when AI-generated noise clutters every feed, Jon Ostrower is doing the opposite; Building a trusted, slow growth media brand rooted in depth, clarity, and real human connection.

In this episode, Jon shares the founding story of The Air Current and the contrarian media bet that made it one of aerospace's most respected outlets. From his time at CNN and The Wall Street Journal to launching a premium aerospace newsletter, Jon walks us through how The Air Current avoids hype and rewrites the rules of aviation journalism.

"Time is the ultimate luxury good in 2025. Your ability to sit and think and reflect on what's going on around you that's the most valuable thing we have."

This conversation isn't just about media. It is about how industry leaders need to think

• Slower, more strategic growth
• Acknowledging aerospace's maturity and preparing for scarce growth
• Why verticalization may be the answer to complex supply chains
• How AI can help, just not where you think
• And how true strategy requires time to think, not just firefighting

If you are in aerospace or defense, this episode is a masterclass in how to stay ahead by slowing down.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

1. Why The Air Current ignores SEO trends and popups and what that teaches us about audience trust
2. The scarcity of growth reality in aerospace, and what mature markets need to hear
3. How vertical integration is shaping the future of aerospace giants like Airbus and SpaceX
4. Why defense is set for a different growth trajectory and how global conflict is influencing strategy
5. The real meaning of being strategic in a complex system like aerospace
6. What senior execs are actually reading and why you shouldn't chase clicks

Connect with Jon Ostrower

Jon Ostrower on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-ostrower-7641557/
Visit The Air Current: https://theaircurrent.com

Connect with Katherine Jerald:

http://www.elraysearch.com

Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com