Jason Cavness didn't leave the Army to become "Major Cavness" in a different uniform. He wanted a clean break. That decision pulled him into startups, podcasting, tech events, Vietnam business relationships, and a career built around one simple habit: say yes when the opportunity is aligned, then figure it out.
Mark Shriner talks with Jason about the transition from military life to entrepreneurship, why podcasting is more than content, how in-person relationships beat cold outreach, and what it really takes to keep building when you're introverted, scattered, nervous, and still moving forward.
We also discuss: • Leaving the Army without chasing another military-adjacent job
• How LinkedIn opened Jason's door into startups
• Why podcasts rarely monetize the way people expect
• Using a podcast to build relationships, credibility, and opportunity
• What Vietnam taught Jason about assumptions, hospitality, and business
• Why warm intros and in-person events still matter
• Public speaking as a trust shortcut
• Being an introvert who still hosts events, podcasts, and rooms
• Seattle's tech ecosystem and the value of being where builders gather
Jason Cavness: https://linktr.ee/
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