GovCon Unscripted

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea talks with Al Kushner, award-winning author of "The AI LinkedIn Advantage" about how AI is transforming LinkedIn strategy for government contractors, business owners, and job seekers.From ChatGPT to Jasper and Copy AI, Al explains how to optimize LinkedIn profiles, build credibility with recommendations, and avoid the pitfalls of AI misuse that can lead to account restrictions.On this episode, we discuss:Why AI should enhance, and not replace authentic contentBest practices for optimizing your LinkedIn profile and postsThe risks of automation bots and compliance issuesResources to sharpen your LinkedIn presence and stand out in GovConTimestamps:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces Al and his book "The AI LinkedIn Advantage"[04:21] - ChatGPT and other AI tools for profile optimization and content[06:47] - The dangers of AI bots and LinkedIn’s spam restrictions[10:08] - Profile essentials: headshots, backgrounds, keywords, recommendations[12:15] - Using AI for research while keeping an authentic voice[18:46] - LinkedIn groups: overlooked networking goldmines[23:09] - Free profile audit tool and resources at linkvantage.com/audit[23:45] - Plans for collaboration and community recommendationsLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Al Kushner’s LinkedIn Profile• Free Resource: linkvantage.com/audit• Book: The AI LinkedIn Advantage

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Natasha Velez, CEO of NVS Strategic Solutions, proposal expert, and capture strategist working across state, local, federal, and even international markets.Natasha shares how companies are pivoting from federal to state and local, why proposals are shifting toward AI-driven evaluations, and how oral presentations are becoming a new proving ground for contractors.On this episode, we discuss:How state, local, and even overseas opportunities are reshaping GovConWhy proposals are no longer just writing exercises but real sales pitchesThe rise of AI in proposal evaluation and what it means for small businessesOral presentations as the new battleground for differentiationTimestamps:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces Natasha and her background[00:02:00] - From federal to international acquisitions (Sweden, Japan, Australia)[00:03:00] - Why contractors are pivoting to state and local opportunities[00:08:00] - Proposal writing vs. sales pitching: the danger of rinse-and-repeat AI templates[00:10:00] - AI entering the evaluation process and what it means for bidders[00:13:00] - The rise of oral presentations and coaching SMEs to “sell” solutions[00:18:00] - Surge in proposal submissions thanks to AI tools — and the new competition[00:21:00] - Capture strategy, sourcing, and avoiding costly canceled solicitations[00:28:00] - Wired bids, the importance of saying “no,” and the SWOT approach[00:33:00] - Why good consultants say no to blind bidding and $20/hour “writers”[00:34:00] - Natasha’s contact info and closing thoughtsLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Natasha Velez’s LinkedIn Profile• NVS Strategic Solutions Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Art Trevethan, a serial entrepreneur, former Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Army Futures Command, and advisor to companies navigating the federal marketplace.From early entrepreneurial ventures to advising venture groups and law firms, Art brings candid insights on why acquisition feels broken, how to work with the system instead of against it, and the hidden lessons he carried from Army Applications Lab.On this episode, we discuss:-Why acquisition frustrations are systemic, not personal-Creativity in getting emerging tech like drones into the system-Why SBIRs can become a trap if companies never graduate from them- The difference between being a vendor vs. being a true problem-solverTimestamps: [00:00] - Chelsea introduces Art and his entrepreneurial journey [00:06:00] - How acquisition was built for “bombs, bullets, boots, and beans” — not modern tools [00:10:00] - Creative contracting workarounds: drones classified as “targets” [00:16:00] - Vendors vs. advisors: problem-solving over promises [00:20:00] - Why no consultant should ever guarantee you a contract in 3 months [00:23:00] - Educating clients on breaking free from the SBIR hamster wheel [00:28:00] - The danger of focusing only on research without reaching real users [00:31:00] - Why the user isn’t the buyer in DOD acquisitions [00:33:00] - Advice for transitioning service members and federal professionals [00:36:00] - How to connect with Art and his advisory workLinks and Resources: • Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile • Art Trevethan’s LinkedIn Profile • Art’s Website

AI isn’t here to replace you, but it might replace how you work.In this special episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Meggitt is joined by David Neal, known as a game-changer in government contracting, and David Fine, a technologist and AI advocate, to explore the role of artificial intelligence in federal acquisition.Together, they unpack the promise and the pitfalls of emerging AI tools, why due diligence matters more than ever, and what small businesses need to know when exploring state, local, and federal opportunities in a tech-powered world.On this episode, we will understand:The right way to use AI in GovConWhy “automation” doesn’t mean “replacement”How AI helps uncover hidden set-aside opportunitiesWhy small businesses are shifting to state/local contractsThe book that started it all: Hey GovCon, Get HelpTimestamps:[00:00] – Chelsea shares book update and intro[02:09] – Meet David Fine and David Neal[06:20] – AI’s role in sourcing, compliance, and intelligence[10:09] – Why most AI tools are still beta-quality[14:15] – The ethics of AI-generated proposals[18:59] – Where AI shines: reading long docs & flagging key data[22:20] – State and local contracting: the 50-system puzzle[24:54] – Tech as an enabler, not a solution[26:11] – What’s next: sign-offs, future episodes & book promotionLinks and Resources:• Hey GovCon, Get Help on Amazon• David Neal on LinkedIn• David Fine on LinkedIn• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile

Why do so many great GovCon companies struggle to stand out?In this episode, Chelsea is joined by Kris Brinker, Co-founder of Ocean 5 Strategies, to talk about why branding, messaging, and content strategy matter more than ever, especially for companies graduating from 8(a) or hitting a growth plateau.We unpack how established firms can evolve their image, align internal culture with external messaging, and create trust with buyers across the procurement process.On this episode, we found out:The biggest messaging mistakes in GovConWhy branding isn’t just about logos, it’s about building trustContent strategies that align with the sales cycleWhy your website is more important than you thinkHow to measure ROI when sales cycles take 12+ monthsTimestamps:[00:00] – Baby updates and Chelsea’s big May[02:41] – Meet Kris Brinker & Ocean 5 Strategies[07:40] – Brand isn’t colors, it’s what people believe about your company[14:33] – Addressing different audiences: procurement, partners, and staff[19:45] – Involving technical staff in messaging strategy[22:40] – What to do after 8(a) graduation or sudden growth[28:35] – Content creation with strategic alignment[34:09] – Why your website is your most valuable asset[35:19] – Measuring marketing ROI in government sales[47:31] – Next steps, sharing, and content release planningLinks and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileKris Brinker's LinkedIn profileOcean 5 Strategies Website

What happens when acquisition reform meets legal reality?In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts is joined by Tom Barrow, counsel at Woods Rogers and a former Army JAG attorney, to dissect the FAR 2.0 rewrite. They unpack what reforms are possible and what’s simply untouchable by executive action.This is the conversation federal contractors need right now to cut through the noise and focus on what really matters. On this episode, we discuss:The critical difference between statutes and regulationsWhat FAR 2.0 can’t touch—competition, payments, and small business goalsWhy commercial acquisition isn’t a silver bulletHow cybersecurity requirements are reshaping "commercial" solutionsWhat contractors should know when submitting claims or settlement proposals [00:00] – Meet Tom Barrow: Army JAG to government contracts attorney[05:15] – FAR 2.0 explained: What’s changing vs. what’s not[08:04] – Statutes vs. regulations and who really has authority[20:30] – Government payment obligations and contractor rights[27:47] – Small business programs and the role of 8(a) awards[33:10] – Commercial acquisition and cybersecurity compliance tension[41:51] – Will FAR 2.0 reform actually work? Final thoughts Links and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileTom Barrow’s LinkedIn ProfileWoods Rogers Law Firm

Can one contract vehicle really change how the government buys?In this episode, Chelsea catches up with Katie Helwig, president of Mild Red LLC, to decode the latest from GSA. From MAS and OASIS+ to the emerging Polaris contract. They explore what small businesses need to know now to stay ahead in 2025’s evolving GovCon landscape.On this episode:How centralized procurement is reshaping federal acquisitionWhat small firms need to qualify for OASIS+Why Polaris is set to dominate the IT landscapeTips for using past performance to get on GSA fasterStrategic steps every small biz should take nowTimestamps:[00:00] – Chelsea & Katie's pre-show chat: baby news and big moves[07:07] – Katie introduces Mildred LLC and talks GSA history[15:54] – What’s inside OASIS+: categories, points, and teaming[25:30] – Polaris: how it differs from CIOSP and MAS[34:16] – GSA MAS: getting on, adding CLINs, and past performance tips[42:24] – July reconnection and next stepsLinks and Resources:• Katie Helwig on LinkedIn• Mild Red LLC• APEX Accelerators (formerly PTAC)• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea welcomes Alexa Tsui, COO of G2X, to break down how business developers in GovCon can stay ahead, especially with the rise of AI, budget shifts, and changing customer landscapes.On this episode, we explore:G2X’s all-in-one platform for BD professionalsWhy companies need to stop trying to prime everythingHow AI certification is becoming a critical differentiatorWhy your next customer may not be federal at allPreparing for a world where ChatGPT and coding meet GovConTimestamps:[00:00] – Chelsea and Alexa catch up on real estate and big life news[04:04] – What makes GovCon Unscripted different[07:51] – G2X: One login for smarter BD capture[14:32] – Pivot #1: Focus more on subcontracting[19:23] – Pivot #2: Invest in AI PM certifications[25:47] – Pivot #3: Explore state and local markets[27:21] – OpenAI & Anthropic: What to watch in GovTech AI[34:32] – “Innovate or die”: The accelerating pace of GovCon tech[44:47] – Shared roots, personal stories, and what’s nextLinks and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileAlexa's LinkedIn profileG2Xchange WebsiteG2Exchange LinkedIn pageAI PM Certification via Cognilytica

What happens when tariffs, talent migration, and immigration collide at the policy level?In this episode, Chelsea welcomes Andy Semotiuk, U.S. and Canadian immigration attorney, Forbes contributor, and policy expert, to explore how shifting U.S.-Canada dynamics are impacting global trade, innovation, and the human cost of enforcement.We cover:Tariffs and the decline of North American cooperationThe rising role of Canadian contractors in U.S. detention infrastructureWhy top academic talent is quietly leaving the U.S.A controversial vision: North America as a shared economic zoneTimestamps:[00:00] – Meet Andy Semotiuk and podcast setup[07:14] – Tariff tensions and why Canada is pushing back[13:47] – Could the U.S. become the next China-style isolationist power?[21:00] – The logistics and contracts behind U.S. immigration detention[28:41] – Ukraine’s tech model and U.S. brain drain to Canada[34:17] – $10 billion in lost trade—and rising concerns[41:49] – Wealth inequality and the disappearing middle class[46:55] – Where to find Andy and continue the conversationLinks and Resources:Andy Semotiuk LinkedIn profilePace Law FirmChelsea’s LinkedIn Profile

What does it take to actually build and scale physical innovation in GovCon?In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Callye Keen, CEO of KForm and host of Startup Defense, to explore the real challenges of bringing new defense technology to market from startup myths to manufacturing realities.We cover:🛠️ The hard truths of scaling defense tech📉 Why most SBIR-funded startups never transition💡 What “innovation as a service” actually looks like🤝 Why partnerships (not pitches) win contracts🧠 A smarter approach to requirements developmentTimestamps:[00:00] – Personal intros and podcast history[06:04] – Callye’s journey from machine shop to full-scale innovation hub[10:36] – Why he works mostly with defense startups[14:10] – The gap between cool demos and real manufacturing[20:08] – Why success in GovCon needs a new startup playbook[28:57] – Market signals, not just funding, matter[34:53] – How Callye designs products around user feedback[41:31] – The missing middle in DoD prototyping[46:16] – Packaging innovation into services government can buy[53:11] – Why speed (not scale) is your first defense milestoneLinks and Resources:• KForm Website• The Startup Defense Podcast by Callye Keen• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile

What if reforming the FAR wasn’t just possible—but inevitable?In this episode, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Chip Walter, former Navy pilot and CIA innovation lead turned partner at Marlinspike. Together, they unpack the real impact of the new Executive Order on acquisition reform—and what it means for startups, contracting officers, and the defense tech landscape.On this episode, we discuss:📜 How the new EO challenges legacy contracting models💡 Why OTAs offer more substance than SBIR grants🔍 What makes dual-use technology a national advantage🚀 The agile edge: Marlinspike’s portfolio of cutting-edge companies⚖️ Balancing innovation with the role of the primesTimestamps:[00:00] – Chip’s background: Navy, CIA, Northrop Grumman, and Marlinspike[07:05] – Why the term “innovation” is often misused—and what it really looks like[13:08] – Cracking the code on DoD money flow and program entry points[15:55] – OTAs vs. SBIRs: Which offers a real path to program of record?[20:17] – Contracting officer shortages and the burden of outdated systems[25:16] – “10-for-1” rule: How the EO forces smarter rulemaking[30:45] – DoD’s overreliance on cost-plus—and the consequences[38:24] – Can the primes really move at startup speed?[44:32] – Why autonomy needs full commitment, not half-measures[48:01] – Inside Marlinspike’s portfolio: robotics, AI, autonomy & logistics[55:29] – Mission-first investing & Chip’s advice for startupsLinks and Resources:• Chip Walter on LinkedIn• Marlinspike Website• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile

What if the tools you’re using are actually slowing you down? In this episode, I sit down with Noura Bashshur, Senior Director of Growth at Vultron, to explore how proposal writing is being turned on its head by AI, compressed deadlines, and non-FAR procurement methods.We dive into smarter, faster ways to win—and how contractors must shift from boilerplate compliance to strategic persuasion.On this episode, we cover:🚀 What today’s evaluators actually look for in proposals📚 How to use Noura’s Proposal Strategy Workbook with or without AI🤖 Leveraging generative tools to amplify—not replace—your thinking💼 Why traditional FAR-based workflows are becoming obsoleteTimestamps:[00:00] - Meet Noura Bashshur and intro to today’s topic[03:05] - The end of template-based proposal writing[06:13] - OTAs, CSOs, and the shrinking GovCon timeline[10:09] - AI as your proposal team’s new co-pilot[17:56] - “Ladder logic” and how to link responses to national priorities[21:11] - Inside Noura’s Proposal Response Strategy Workbook[24:06] - Using AI to validate strategy, not just generate content[32:59] - Getting teams into their “zone of genius”[38:17] - What makes Voltron different from other platforms[43:30] - How to contact Noura and download her workbookLinks and Resources:• Noura Bashshur’s LinkedIn• Vultron Website• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, F-15E Strike Eagle pilot-turned-innovator Clark "Slider" Haymond (COO of DEWM) reveals how his team is solving one of DoD’s biggest training gaps: realistic electronic warfare (EW) at 1/100th the cost.Key Takeaways:🎯 The $15M Training Gap: Why current EW range systems fail pilots (and how DEWM’s Dart fixes it).✈️ From Spark Tank to SBIR: How winning an Air Force "Shark Tank" led to a Phase II SBIR and TRL 9 tech.💡 Attritable ≠ Disposable: The art of building low-cost, high-fidelity threat emitters for mass adoption.🛠️ Operator-Led Innovation: Why DEWM’s team of ex-pilots gives them an edge in customer discovery. Timestamps:[00:00] - Clark’s transition from F-15E pilot to disruptor.[11:50] - How the F-15’s 20-year EW gap inspired DEWM.[17:14] - Dart: The $150K alternative to $15M range systems.[25:24] - SBIR Phase II wins (and why TPOCs make/break success).[34:56] - Why SEAD training is broken (and how F-35s will force change).[42:04] - The million-dollar question: “Have you found program funding?” Links & Resources:Chelsea Meggit's LinkedInDEWM’s WebsiteClark Haymond’s LinkedIn

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Christine Hopkins—CEO of ASCII and 2025 Alaska Small Business Person of the Year—shares her gritty journey from near-collapse in the oil industry to thriving in federal contracting. Discover how she navigated scams, remote business development from Alaska, and the whiplash of recent policy changes.Key Takeaways:🚨 Scam Alert: The predatory emails and contracts targeting new GovCon entrants (and how to avoid them).🏔️ Remote Hustle: Building federal relationships from Alaska during COVID—and making it stick.📜 Policy Whiplash: Overnight contract mods, scrubbed DEI language, and dodged greenhouse gas reporting.🏆 Resilience Wins: How Christine’s "slow growth" strategy earned her a SBA award—and a shot at the national title.Timestamps:[00:00] - From oil crisis to GovCon: Christine’s pivot story.[10:27] - The SAM.gov scam flood (and costly lessons learned).[16:39] - The $120 NDAA guide that never arrived.[24:47] - Winning Small Business Person of the Year—without self-nominating.[34:27] - How admin changes impacted her contracts (good and bad).[40:08] - Why she caps growth at 1-2 contracts/year to protect her reputation.Links & Resources:Christine Hopkins’ LinkedInChelsea Meggitt's LinkedInASCI Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I’m joined by Stacey Piper, founder and CEO of Piper Strategies. Stacey brings 30+ years of experience in federal contracting—from her early days in the intelligence community to launching her own marketing firm helping government contractors grow.We discuss marketing challenges in GovCon, personal branding, visibility in a crowded market, and why contractors need to shift from “proposal mills” to strategic storytelling.On this episode, we discuss:💡 Why visibility is critical in the federal space🧭 How marketing can serve as the “true north” for your GovCon business📈 The power of personal branding, purpose, and authenticity🎯 Tactical advice on building a GovCon marketing strategy that resonates[00:00] - Chelsea welcomes Stacey Piper and introduces her GovCon journey[04:10] - Transitioning from intelligence to federal contracting and early career roles[09:32] - Founding Piper Strategies and launching during a government shutdown[14:45] - Why marketing is more than color palettes—it's about value and clarity[21:07] - Using thought leadership and content strategy to get “found”[29:55] - Government buyers as humans: trust, familiarity, and storytelling[37:20] - Balancing personal and company brands in a niche market[44:01] - Stacey’s advice for small GovCon businesses ready to scale[51:14] - Where she sees the future of GovCon marketing headingLinks & Resources: Stacey Piper’s LinkedIn Piper StrategiesPiper Strategies Messaging PivotsGovCon Unscripted Podcast

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I'm your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with David Doerrier—GovCon trainer, Army veteran, and public speaking expert.We dive deep into the power of clear communication in the world of federal contracting. David shares his insights on how even the most qualified contractors can lose opportunities if they fail to effectively deliver their message.We talk about:🎤 Why effective communication is a game-changer in GovCon🧠 The power of message alignment in proposal delivery💥 How contractors unintentionally confuse the customerIn This Episode:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces David Doerrier[01:10] - David’s background in training and communication[03:30] - Mistakes contractors make in message delivery[06:00] - Importance of aligning visuals and spoken words[08:45] - The "listener first" mindset for contractors[12:00] - Speaking with clarity during proposal presentations[15:00] - Advice for GovCon teams to improve communicationLinks & Resources:Present Your Way to Success WebsiteChelsea's LinkedInDavid Doerrier's LinkedIn

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with JL Hancock—a retired Naval cryptologist and innovation expert with two decades of experience in defense technology.We talk about his work with SEAL teams, innovation funding, overcoming acquisition hurdles, and his pivot into writing techno-thrillers.On this episode, we discuss:🧠 What it takes to innovate within the bureaucracy of the Department of Defense💡 How JL leveraged labs and OTAs to build cutting-edge solutions📚 Why he turned to writing and what inspires his techno-thriller novels[00:00] - Chelsea introduces JL Hancock and his background as a cryptologist and SEAL team innovator[04:22] - Working with autonomous systems and the early days of defense robotics[16:40] - Tapping into national labs for cutting-edge special operations tech[28:06] - Navigating traditional acquisition vs. OTAs and DIUx[43:27] - Building cross-branch collaboration and managing prime contractor relationships[57:27] - JL’s post-military journey as a consultant and author of "The Hawk Enigma"[01:05:13] - Over-the-horizon targeting, unmanned systems, and future warfareLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• JL Hancock’s Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Mark Wigginton to discuss key insights on how businesses can navigate the complexities of government contracting.We explore:🔍 How to turn chaos into opportunity 💼 Why the top of your resume is your prime real estate 💡 Tools to identify and articulate your strengths 🧠 How mindset and perspective shape career outcomesIn This Episode:00:00 - Chelsea welcomes Mark and introduces his expertise in GovCon05:15: Helping individuals prepare for the opportunities on the other side of chaos10:45: Why the top half of your resume matters most 16:30: Identifying your strengths and highlighting them effectively22:50: Using tools to conduct a strengths analysis28:10: How to shift your attitude and perspective on a career transitionLinks and Resources: Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileMark’s LinkedIn ProfileFocusing On Results Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I'm your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Tim Balz, CEO of Kalogon to discuss key GovCon strategies, industry trends, and the biggest challenges facing government contractors today.We discuss: 🔍 The most pressing challenges GovCon businesses face in today’s market💡 Strategies for navigating government contracts successfully🚀 Key insights on business growth and sustainability in the federal spaceIn This Episode:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces Tim and his experience in the GovCon industry[05:15] - Common pitfalls businesses face in government contracting[10:30] - How to position your company for federal contract success[16:45] - Emerging trends and opportunities in the GovCon space[22:00] - The importance of networking and building relationships in GovCon[27:40] - Tim’s top advice for businesses looking to scale in GovConLinks and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileTim’s LinkedIn ProfileKalogon LinkedIn Page

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I'm your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with my co-author and GovCon expert, David Neal, to discuss our new book, Hey, GovCon, Get Help! —a survival guide for government contractors.We cover:🔍 The pitfalls and scams in federal contracting💡 Why success requires more than a "one-trick pony"🚀 How to orient yourself in the GovCon marketIf you're serious about surviving—and thriving—in the GovCon space, this is the must-have guide everyone’s been waiting for.In This Episode:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces David Neal and their book[01:00] - Why this book helps frustrated contractors[03:00] - The "carnival barker" scams to avoid[05:00] - Building the right team for GovCon success[10:00] - Advice for federal employees becoming contractors[13:00] - How to pre-order (launching April 10!)Links & Resources:Pre-order Hey, GovCon, Get Help!Chelsea's LinkedInDavid Neal's LinkedIn