In this episode of the Refit Podcast, Kyle Killian interviews Robert Fabian, COO of Vaya Space, who discusses the development of next-generation hybrid rocket engines for defense and space launch. Robert shares insights from his military background and how it informs his leadership style in a startup environment. He emphasizes the importance of safety culture, the challenges of transitioning from individual contributor to leader, and the critical nature of evaluating leadership fit within the organization as it scales. In this conversation, Robert Fabian discusses the evolution of his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of safety management, documentation, and fostering a collaborative work environment. He shares insights on ethical fundraising strategies for his company, Vaya Space, and reflects on the challenges of leadership in high-stakes environments. Additionally, he offers valuable advice for senior military officers transitioning to civilian life, highlighting the significance of knowing one's goals and leveraging professional networks.
Takeaways
Vaya Space is developing new hybrid rocket engines for commercial and defense applications.
The transition to defense was driven by increasing demand signals from global conflicts.
Robert's military experience shapes his leadership approach in a startup environment.
Safety culture is paramount in the development of rocket engines.
Mentoring in leadership requires effort from both mentor and mentee.
Making tough decisions about team dynamics is essential for long-term success.
Cultural fit is a critical component of the hiring process.
Scaling leadership requires letting go of technical details.
Every new hire impacts the organization's culture and performance.
Robert emphasizes the importance of flexibility in work hours for team collaboration.
Robert emphasizes the need for accountability without punishment in safety management.
Documentation and discipline are crucial for young engineers to understand.
Cultural reinforcement is essential for safety and risk elimination.
Collaboration and spontaneous discussions enhance creativity and problem-solving.
Ethical fundraising allows for gradual growth and proof of concept.
Leadership in startups involves managing multiple responsibilities and risks.
Support from family is vital during challenging entrepreneurial times.
Transitioning military leaders should know their goals and leverage their networks.
Asking for help is important in navigating career transitions.
Creating a culture where all ideas are valued fosters innovation.
To connect with Robert - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robfabian/
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– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team
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#TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.
What is The Refit Podcast?
Welcome to The Refit Podcast, hosted by Kyle Killian.
This is where we talk about leadership the way leaders actually experience it—messy, uncertain, and nothing like the books make it sound.
I'm Kyle Killian, founder of Kohora. I spent nearly three decades leading in military, corporate, and entrepreneurial environments—from intelligence missions in Iraq to senior roles at Nike, Converse, and Fanatics.
And here's what I've learned: every single thing in business is a leadership problem.On this podcast, I sit down with CEOs, founders, operators, and fellow veterans who've transitioned to business leadership. We're not here to recite frameworks or share motivational quotes.
We're here to talk about the hard thing about hard things—the decisions that didn't have a right answer, the conversations you couldn't avoid, and the moments that changed how you lead.If you've ever been in a situation where the playbook stopped working and you had to figure it out anyway, this podcast is for you.