GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley

Alex Wagner, the former Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower & Reserve Affairs, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the Future of the National Security Workforce and how it’s being shaped by rapidly evolving trends. The conversation covers the role of technology in defense, diversity and inclusion within the Department of Defense (DoD), how Silicon Valley is connecting with the DoD to drive innovation, and what these changes mean for the defense industry. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Opinion: "Actually there's not much DEI in the DOD" https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/01/29/hegseth-dei-defense-department-military/ BIOGRAPHY: Alex Wagner served as the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower & Reserve Affairs from 2022 to 2025. Nominated by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, he was responsible for the entire human capital enterprise of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, including recruiting and retention, talent management, compensation, health care and dependent care, discipline, oversight of the U.S. Air Force Academy and Air Force ROTC detachments, and reserve component affairs impacting nearly 700,000 Airmen, Guardians, and civilians. Previously, as Vice President at the Aerospace Industries Association, Alex led talent and workforce policy efforts on behalf of America’s most prominent aerospace and defense companies. During the Obama administration, he served as Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the Army, spearheading creation of the Army Rapid Capabilities Office and the Army Digital Service. Over the course of several prior appointments in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, he shaped the development and implementation of DoD policies on nuclear and conventional weapons, including emerging autonomy in weapons systems. He earned a J.D. from Georgetown Law, an A.B. from Brown University, and is currently an adjunct professor at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/  https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/

Dan Tadross, Head of Public Sector at Scale AI, joins Mike Shanley to explore what Agentic AI Warfare might look like in the near future. The conversation covers AI interoperability with legacy systems, the evolving landscape of data sources and large language models (LLMs), and the significance of Meta’s $13 billion investment in this space.   RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Scale LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scaleai/posts/?feedView=all Dan Tadross LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantadross/ Scale X profile: https://x.com/scale_ai Scale website: https://scale.com Scale YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Scale_AI BIOGRAPHY: Dan Tadross is the Head of Public Sector at Scale AI, a dual use technology company that builds the infrastructure for the most ambitious artificial intelligence projects in the world. In this role, Dan oversees all aspects of Scale’s support to the U.S. public sector. Prior to Scale, Dan served 12 years on Active Duty in the Marine Corps where he was a founding member of the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC), a precursor to the Pentagon’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office. At the JAIC, Dan established the Joint Warfighting National Mission Initiative and led project Gargoyle, which focused on deploying Computer Vision for enhancing force protection. Prior to the JAIC, Major Tadross, an Air Traffic Control Officer, was hand selected as a member of the Secretary of the Navy’s Innovation Advisory Council, where he conducted independent research at the MITRE Corporation on integrating AI into Aviation Command and Control. His previous tours included Marine Air Tactical Command Squadron 18 in Okinawa, Japan where he served as the Senior Air Coordinator and supported exercises in South Korea, the Philippines, and Australia. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Old Dominion University and a Masters in Technology Management from Georgetown University. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/  https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ 

Peter Battaglia, Deputy Director of Mission Assurance at the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), joins Mike Shanley to discuss DLA’s priorities and initiatives in today’s evolving defense landscape. The conversation covers logistics surge capacity, securing the supply chain, and the role of NATO’s industrial base in supporting global readiness. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ DLA website: https://www.dla.mil/ DLA Strategic Plan (2025-2030): https://www.dla.mil/Portals/104/Documents/Headquarters/StrategicPlan/DLAStrategicPlan2025-2030March2025.pdf BIOGRAPHY: Mr. Peter Battaglia is the DLA Mission Assurance Deputy Director serving as the DLA lead for Mission Assurance, Defense Critical Infrastructure, and Continuity of Operations Planning. He also serves as the Supply Chain Security and Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) Program Manager for DLA. In this position he is the expert technical authority responsible for oversight of the design, implementation, execution, and promulgation of DLA's SCS/SCRM Program for worldwide support of OSD, JCS, CCMDs, and Military Services plans and operations. He graduated from the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in 2021. He previously served as the Customer Relations Management Process Owner managing a portfolio of $7M and 800 personnel, including the Customer Interaction Center (helpline) and Customer Support Representatives interfacing with the supported services, combatant commands, and inter-agencies. Mr. Battaglia established and implemented the DLA Agency Synchronization Operations Center (ASOC). The ASOC synchronizes and integrates the Agency’s operational mission and business support functions to provide agile, global support to the Warfighter and select Federal Agencies. The ASOC provides Agency leadership and mission partners a shared and standardized view; enables operational support serving as the consensus source of truth among all mission partners; focuses the Agency on output, readiness, effectiveness, and service to standards; and provides the tools and actionable information to conduct root cause analysis, develop solutions and courses of action, and implement senior leader decisions. Mr. Battaglia also served as the Chief of the DLA Logistics Operations (J3) Director’s Action Group aligning the strategic efforts and messaging of the J3 and aligned Executive Directors to ensure DLA logistics support. Prior to this assignment, Mr. Battaglia strategically assessed DLA Customer Support by evaluating the DLA personnel laydown and functions resulting in $21M savings across the FYDP. He served as the Medical Materiel Executive Agent (MMEA) Analyst for DLA, orchestrating and synchronizing medical logistics for the complete range of military and whole of government missions such as utilization of non-FDA approved medical materiel and transportation policies allowing commercial narcotic shipments. Mr. Battaglia was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and hails from Herndon, Virginia. He received his Masters in National Security and Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School in 2021 and his LOGTECH MBA, Logistics and Technology, from the Kelly School of Business, Indiana University in 2010. He received his undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia in 2000. His wife, two children, and semi-classic BMW hobby serve to keep him busy while not working. Mr. Battaglia has received the DLA Meritorious Civilian Performance Award (2011) and the DLA Superior Civilian Performance Award (2020 and 2005). LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/  https://www.konektid.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ 

Jeffrey Grieco, President & CEO of the Afghan-American Chamber of Commerce and Advisory Council Member at ISOA, joins host Mike Shanley to talk about the NATO 5% spend target and what it means for business development and growth teams in the government services sector. They discuss the current European security situation, how NATO’s increased investment impacts contractors, and the growing opportunities for industry BD teams. Grieco also shares takeaways from the ISOA Europe & ATO Bucharest Conference, and why now is a pivotal moment for companies to engage.   RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreygrieco/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/   BIOGRAPHY:  Jeffrey J. Grieco, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Afghan-American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and International Stability Operations Association (ISOA) Advisory Council Member and Chair of the ISOA Ukraine and Greater Middle East Working Groups. Mr. Grieco has served on the AACC Board of Directors since 2011 and has served as President and CEO since 2017. He travels to Afghanistan and the region frequently and speaks on behalf of the AACC at major donor and government events, think tanks and AACC Afghanistan-related private sector programs and conferences. He is also a Board Member Emeritus of the ISOA and currently serves on its Advisory Council. Mr. Grieco also serves as an independent foreign policy consultant with senior leadership experience within the U.S. Government and private sector providing a unique mix of leadership in the areas of: foreign policy, national security, international business development, U.S and international government relations, Congressional and public affairs and international assistance. As a consultant, he provides international investment, banking, finance and government relations services to multinational corporations and global non-profit organizations. Utilizing an extensive network of professional contacts, Mr. Grieco meets frequently with Administration and Congressional leadership and professional staff concerning U.S. and international assistance policies. He is a frequent speaker and panelist at foreign policy, national security, Congressional hearings and international development conferences. Mr. Grieco has also led his own businesses and consulted for Fortune 500 companies in international business development, foreign direct investment and associated government relations services for companies including: AT&T, Raytheon, Westinghouse ESG, Lucky Goldstar, Hyundai Motors, General Dynamics, and many more. In addition to maintaining language proficiencies in French and Korean, he has technical expertise working within international markets in such sectors as defense, ICT, manufacturing, air transportation systems and services, agriculture, energy development and finance. As a U.S. Senate-confirmed Presidential Appointee he served as Assistant Administrator for Legislative and Public Affairs at the U.S. Agency for International Development/U.S. Department of State until 2009. Mr. Grieco managed all agency global communications, media and public affairs and U.S. Congressional relations through a particularly difficult period in the post-9-11 foreign policy environment and was involved in standing-up the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), PEPFAR and various other successful Presidential Initiatives. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/

Ben Solomon, Founder & CEO of FedTech, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the changing DoD innovation funding market, which startups are right for DoD market, and how to get access innovation funding. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Connect with Ben Solomon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-solomon-fedtech/ Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/ Defense Innovation Unit - https://www.diu.mil/ BIOGRAPHY: Ben founded FedTech in 2015 and has led the firm through its growth from a small regional venture to an international company that catalyzes interaction between the venture world and the R&D community. He is passionate about democratizing access to deep tech and empowering entrepreneurs. Ben has taught on technology commercialization at his alma mater, the University of Maryland, and previously held positions at NBC Sports and Bloomberg News. He holds a BA in History from Princeton University. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/  https://www.konektid.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/  

Todd Marks, Founder & CEO of Mindgrub, joins Mike Shanley to discuss how AI can be leveraged for Defense sales, anticipating DoD customer intent, relationship building and proposal development, and determining growth investment priorities.  RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Todd Marks LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindgrub/   BIOGRAPHY: Todd Marks, a teacher-turned-technologist, is at the forefront of digital innovation as the Founder and CEO of Mindgrub Technologies. Since 2002, Marks has guided Mindgrub to become a leader in AI solutions, mobile and web development, and emerging technologies, earning a coveted spot on the Inc. 5000 list for ten consecutive years. Under Marks' leadership, Mindgrub has delivered award-winning projects for industry giants like NASA, Under Armour, and DELL, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. His strategic vision and technical expertise have driven Mindgrub's remarkable expansion, establishing it as a formidable presence in the tech industry and attracting a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients. A sought-after futurist and speaker, Marks shares his insights on AI and technology at conferences across North America. His expertise is further recognized through multiple accolades, including two EY Entrepreneur of the Year nominations and three Most Admired CEOs awards from The Daily Record. Marks extends his influence beyond Mindgrub, serving as the Emeritus Executive Board Chair for the Maryland Technology Council and Chair of YPO Northeast One. His commitment to fostering technological advancement is evident in his active participation on various tech council boards. With a unique blend of educational background and technological acumen, Marks continues to drive innovation in AI, robotics, and mixed reality applications. His work not only shapes the future of technology but also inspires the next generation of tech leaders. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/

Chris Watson, Vice President of Premise Data, joins Mike Shanley to discuss how AI innovation and federal procurement intersect, and what changes could facilitate greater innovation. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Premise Data: https://premise.com/ Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwilliamwatson/ BIOGRAPHY: Chris Watson is an evangelist for digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and increased use of commercial products in the global development industry. He currently leads Premise Data’s international development division, with a focus on scaling the use of Premise by country governments, development donors, and their implementing partners. Growing up in West Virginia, Chris became interested in issues of poverty, grassroots development, and the world outside his hometown. He began his international development career in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where he distributed $38 million in emergency seed and fertilizer to farmers returning to areas recently liberated from Taliban control. Not knowing whether this work had a real impact ignited his obsession with using real-time data collection and analytics to improve the efficacy of development programming. Over the last eight years, Chris has helped define and grow the use of Premise by stakeholders in global health, humanitarian assistance, and democracy and governance. He led go-to-market for the international development portfolio, securing support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to prove the value of Premise’s technology and subsequently scaling its use to 70+ development donors, implementing partners and governments. Chris and Premise deeply believe that local citizens should have an increased say in defining the challenges and improving development in their local communities. Shifting the task of collecting data and monitoring service delivery to thousands of local residents as gig work democratizes involvement in such issues while providing a supplementary source of income. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ 

Chief Meteorologist, Sunny Wescott, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the intersection of national security and meteorology. The conversation covers identifying and mitigating infrastructure threats, the impact of weather on military operations, the importance of data analytics and AI, and how industry can best support government priorities. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ BIOGRAPHY: Chief Meteorologist Sunny Wescott specializes in extreme weather events impacting emergency response, supply chain, and critical infrastructure. During her time in the US Air Force as a Lead Meteorologist, Ms. Wescott trained on continental and oceanic weather as the Top Forecaster for her support region and is considered a subject matter expert for multiple climatological events such as drought, subsidence, wildfires, tropical cyclones, and winter storms. Ms. Wescott also graduated top of her class for her degrees in Homeland Security Management, Public Safety Administration, and Atmospheric Sciences. Ms. Wescott focuses on operational forecasting by providing focused impact reports for regions, sites, security, and key interdependencies such as energy and telecommunications before, during, and after disasters. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/  https://www.konektid.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ 

Jim Carroll, President & CEO of the Professional Services Council (PSC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss how PSC is helping federal contractors navigate a shifting federal market. The conversation covers national security trends, PSC’s direct engagement with Congress and the White House, and how AI and innovation are shaping the future of defense acquisition.   Resources: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/   BIOGRAPHY: The Hon. Jim Carroll became Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Professional Services Council (PSC) on May 19, 2025. As CEO, Jim is responsible for advocating for the interests of companies that provide cutting-edge solutions and services to the government. Under his leadership, PSC is shaping public policy, leading strategic coalitions, and establishing communications between government and industry — all with a focus on best outcomes and results for the government and the American taxpayers.  Carroll brings over 30 years of relevant government and industry experience, including service across multiple federal departments and agencies, and a Fortune 25 corporation. He has been appointed by two U.S. Presidents to senior positions and was unanimously confirmed by the Senate. Jim is widely recognized as a trusted leader with a well-documented track record of bipartisan collaboration and strategic policy influence.  Prior to joining PSC, Jim Carroll was a Partner at the law firm Frost Brown Todd (FBT) in Washington, D.C., and served as a Principal at CivicPoint, FBT’s public affairs subsidiary. He advised clients on a wide range of government enforcement and compliance matters, from internal reviews to high-profile investigations.  From 2018-2021, Jim served as Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), leading efforts to address the national opioid crisis. Under his leadership, the United States recorded its first year-over-year decrease in overdose deaths in three decades. He oversaw the coordination of a $35 billion annual budget across 16 federal agencies.    A seasoned policy strategist, Jim Carroll has testified before Congress multiple times, successfully securing funding and driving policy advancements in areas such as public health, law enforcement, and federal procurement. He is widely respected for his ability to navigate complex legal frameworks and government regulatory issues.   Carroll’s deep relationships with senior decision-makers across federal agencies, the White House, and Capitol Hill uniquely position him to help influence and shape policies. His ability to foster bipartisan dialogue and deliver meaningful results has been consistently demonstrated throughout his career.   From 2016 to 2018, Jim held several high-profile roles at the White House, including Principal Deputy Chief of Staff, Deputy White House Counsel, and General Counsel of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. Earlier in his career, during the George W. Bush Administration, Jim held various senior roles, including Associate Counsel and Special Assistant to the President before becoming the Deputy General Counsel and Acting General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Treasury. He also held key positions within the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Policy and the Executive Office for United States Attorneys.   In the private sector, Carroll spent a decade with the Ford Motor Company, where he served as Washington Counsel and Global Director of Compliance. Under his leadership, Ford was recognized by the Ethisphere Institute as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” for three consecutive years. He also served as General Counsel for the Ford Motor Company Fund, the company’s philanthropic arm. A team builder and servant leader, Jim is known for cultivating high-performing teams that prioritize stakeholder needs and deliver results.   LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Matt Petit, Mission Success Lead at Vannevar Labs and former U.S. diplomat, joins Mike Shanley to accelerating national security with new technology. The conversation focuses startups and innovation in national security to deliver faster and more efficient results.   Resources: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/   BIOGRAPHY: Matt Petit is a Mission Success Lead at Vannevar Labs and former U.S. diplomat. Prior to joining Vannevar, Matt spent nearly 17 years with the U.S. Foreign Service. During that time, he served in India, Zambia, and Armenia (covering Iran). While on assignments in in Washington, Matt managed foreign policy on Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Sudan, and global counterterrorism. From April 2022 to July 2023, Matt was the Director for the Sahel at the White House National Security Council. Matt speaks Persian, Spanish, and some Tamil, German, and French. He lives in the DC area with his wife and daughter.   LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

David Berteau, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Services Council (PSC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss the federal funding market. The conversation focuses on the shifting federal market, new opportunities, and strategies for government contractors. Specifically, the following topics were discussed in this episode: Budget Message to PSC members The role of congress key takeaways - federal growth implications for current and prospective federal contractors Common and uncommon aspects of this transition RFPs and bid process   RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/   BIOGRAPHY: Mr. Berteau became the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Services Council (PSC) on March 28, 2016. With more than 400 members, PSC is the premier resource for and advocate of the federal government contracting industry. As CEO, Mr. Berteau focuses on legislative and regulatory issues related to government acquisition, budgets, and requirements by helping to shape public policy, leading strategic coalitions, and working to improve communications between government and industry. PSC’s goal is to improve outcomes and results for the government through better use of contracts and contractors.  Prior to PSC, Mr. Berteau was confirmed in December 2014 as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics and Materiel Readiness. He oversaw the management of $170 billion in Department of Defense logistics funding.  Previously, Mr. Berteau served as Senior Vice President at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where his research and analysis covered federal budgets, national security, management, contracting, logistics, acquisition, and industrial base issues. He also held senior positions in industry and the federal government.  Mr. Berteau is a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration and a Director of the Procurement Round Table. He has been an adjunct graduate school professor at Georgetown University, at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, and at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School.   LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

In this episode of the GovDiscovery AI podcast, host Mike Shanley discusses the 2026 discretionary budget request released by the White House. The conversation covers key highlights of the budget, including significant cuts and increases across various federal agencies, and the strategic implications for federal partners. The episode emphasizes the importance of aligning proposals with the administration's priorities and staying informed about changes in federal funding. Takeaways The 2026 discretionary budget request was released on May 2, 2025. The budget emphasizes a shift to centralized mission-focused federal spending. Contractors may face fewer opportunities for larger contracts. The Department of Defense received a significant budget increase. The Department of Homeland Security also saw a substantial budget increase. The State Department faced an over 80% budget cut. The term 'consolidate' was frequently used in the budget request. Firms should align their proposals with administration priorities. Staying updated on presidential actions is crucial for federal partners. GovDiscovery AI offers deeper research for federal capture pursuits.  

Monica Harris, former DHS Senior IT Acquisition Advisor, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the federal funding market. The conversation focuses on how evaluation criteria are determined, government's evaluation and award process, proposal tips, and how to influence before the RFP drops. Resources: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ BIOGRAPHY: Monica Padron-Harris recently retired (Nov 2024) from DHS USCIS as a Sr. IT Acquisition Advisor supporting the Office of Technology (OIT) and the Office of Contracting (OCON). She was responsible for preparing and identifying the most effective procurement strategies for OIT’s portfolio. This included determining the evaluation factors, contract vehicle, business size (full and open or set aside), authoring the RFI questions and answers, and preparing the procurement documentation to support the decision. This included the evaluation plan, market research, Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE), and Acquisition Plan approvals. She also served as a technical advisor on the source selection panel. As an IT acquisition consultant with over 30 years of experience in a variety of Federal agencies (21 years at DoD/Navy), Monica specializes in identifying strategic acquisition targets and understanding the federal contracting marketplace, specifically within DHS. She spent the last 12+ years at USCIS as a Contracting Officer, Sr. Procurement Analyst (Policy), and Sr. IT Acquisition Advisor to the senior leadership team within OIT and the Office of Contracting. She has an intimate knowledge of the industry landscape within the DMV and specifically within DHS. Monica has excellent external and internal relationships within the Federal landscape and understands the importance and value of industry intelligence. She has the “inside” perspective of industry partners, expertise, and value to ensure partnerships are comprised of the best teaming arrangements to have the highest PWIN. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Christy Hollywood, Senior Business Development Consultant, joins Mike Shanley to discuss key trends shaping federal business development and capture, strategies for competing and winning in a shifting market, emerging opportunities and challenges, and what this means for business development teams.   Resources: - GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ - Request a USG Federal Market Capture Accelerator Packet from GovDiscovery AI: https://airtable.com/appjEpMKc9BdVkqhC/shrPkKFKXHPW3ym5Z   BIOGRAPHY: Christy Hollywood supports Konektid clients and consultants with skills honed during 20+ years of leadership in international development, professional services, and consulting organizations. She led a successful consulting firm of her own for 11 years. Earlier, she served as Vice President for BD of Cardno (a large USAID and MCC contractor, since acquired) and held pivotal business development roles at KPMG’s Emerging Markets Group, RTI International, PATH, as well as Fidelity Investments and Noblis. A recognized expert in business development consulting, she’s authored several articles and is five-time invited presenter at international conferences on proposal management, competitive intelligence, and business development.   LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Elizabeth Shortino, Former Acting U.S. Executive Director at the IMF, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the role of the IMF and U.S. Executive Director, how the IMF assesses political risk, IMF engagement in emerging and frontier markets, and insights for business expanding into new markets. BIOGRAPHY: Elizabeth Shortino recently served as the Acting U.S. Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), an international financial institution charged with promoting international monetary and financial stability and growth. In this role, Ms. Shortino represented the United States at the IMF Executive Board and advanced U.S. interests on a range of issues, including IMF lending to strategic countries such as Argentina, Egypt, Pakistan and other; IMF surveillance of global markets and growth; and all IMF institutional and policy issues. Prior to working at the IMF, Ms. Shortino spent 20 years in public service at the U.S. Treasury and the Office of Management and Budget covering international economic and development issues. She served as Director for the International Monetary Policy office and led Treasury’s staff engagement and coordination on all G7 and G20 Finance Track issues, including communique negotiations, designing and advancing the U.S. agenda for its p. Ms. Shortino also oversaw the Treasury stance on all IMF policy issues and country lending programs. Prior to this role, Ms. Shortino managed the Office of Middle East and North Africa and helped coordinate an international response amongst the G7, Gulf partners, and international financial institutions to support countries undergoing democratic transitions as part of the Arab Spring. She also oversaw U.S. Treasury economic engagement in strategic countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, and negotiated U.S. sovereign loan guarantees to several Middle East countries. Prior to joining the U.S. Treasury, Ms. Shortino worked at the Office of Management and Budget covering international and defense spending and served as a management consultant for Cap Gemini and at Ernst & Young. Ms. Shortino holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Masters in International Studies from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Global Strategy Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

James Richardson, former Director of the Office of Foreign Assistance, joins Mike Shanley to discuss the Role of the State Department under Trump II, foreign assistance priorities, budget implications, and intra-government coordination. BIOGRAPHY: James “Jim” Richardson is the Executive Director to the 70th Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, working various ventures and programs. He is also the Executive Chairman of The Pompeo Foundation, a 501c(3) dedicated to thoughtful discussion and education on some of the world's toughest challenges. He was previously Director of the Office of Foreign Assistance at the U.S. Department of State. On behalf of the Secretary of State, he coordinated $35 billion in foreign assistance across the State Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), ensuring policy, performance, and budget alignment. He was also responsible for foreign assistance strategic planning, policy, and monitoring and evaluation standards. Prior to that, Mr. Richardson served as Coordinator of USAID’s Transformation Task Team. He led the historic reorganization to reshape the Agency around the principle of ‘Ending the Need for Foreign Assistance,’ establishing new Bureaus, policies, processes, and workforce solutions. Concurrent with his role on Transformation, Jim was Assistant to the Administrator in USAID’s Bureau for Policy, Planning and Learning (PPL). He was responsible for agency-wide strategic planning, policy development, monitoring and evaluation standards, and international donor coordination. With over 25 years of private and government service, Mr. Richardson spearheaded numerous complex operations and developed an extensive public policy and legislative process background. He served as Chief of Staff for then-Congressman Mike Pompeo (KS-04) —overseeing Congressman Pompeo’s offices in Washington, DC, and Wichita, Kansas. He also worked with the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee for Congressman Todd Tiahrt (KS-04), the House Armed Services Committee for Congressman Jim Ryun (KS-02), and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for Senator John Ashcroft (R-MO). He began his government career with Senator Christopher “Kit” Bond (R-MO). Mr. Richardson holds a Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies from Missouri State University and a Bachelor of Science in Government from Evangel University. He also graduated from the United States Air Force Air Command and Staff College (ACSC). LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and AidKonekt. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Dr. Alma Golden, former USAID Assistant Administrator for Global Health, joins Mike Shanley to discuss Trump II USAID funding priorities, what will be similar and different than Trump I, opportunities for new partners, and USAID and global health overall. RESOURCES: Contact Dr. Alma Golden at agolden@theiwh.org Women’s Optimal Health Framework The Women’s Optimal Health Framework - The Institute For Women's Health Who We Are — PROSAMI DRC Midwifery Centers WOHF PDF Health Across the Lifespan Country Roadmaps | USAID WOHF PDF: Community Health Worker WOHF PDF: Emotional and Mental Health WOHF PDF: Healthy Marriage and Family Relationships WOHF PDF: Families and Children in Crisis WOHF PDF: Adolescent Reproductive and Relationship Health acquirefrontline.org Africa Consortium for Quality Improvement Research Health, Ecosystems and Agriculture for Resilient, Thriving Societies (HEARTH) New Partnerships Initiative | Work with USAID | U.S. Agency for International Development 2020 Evidence Summit on Strategic Religious Engagement | Faith and Opportunity Initiatives | U.S. Agency for International Development BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Alma Golden is a pediatrician who currently serves as COO and Director of Global Health for the Institutes for Women's Health. Previously she served as the Senate-Confirmed Presidential Appointee to lead the Bureau for Global Health in the United States Agency for International Development in Washington, DC. In that role, she oversaw the USAID Global Health response to the COVID pandemic, directed the Offices of Maternal and Child Health, HIV/ AIDS, as well as other critical health programs. Previously (2002-2006) she served under President George W. Bush in Health and Human Services leading the Office of Population Affairs which included adolescent health, teen pregnancy, abstinence education, and family planning. She has been instrumental in developing evidence-based guidance and research related to adolescent health risks, parenting, and training of medical and education professionals. Her career has included private pediatrics, indigent health services, academic medicine (University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, and Texas A&M University), healthcare administration, adolescent health, and national and international public health policy. She began her professional career as a 7th grade Life Science teacher before entering medicine and has remained active in education as well as medicine. Dr. Golden is a proud grandmother and active in her community and church. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and AidKonekt. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Alice Albright, CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss MCC's role in US foreign policy, key MCC accomplishments, future countries and sectors of work, and how organizations can partner with MCC. RESOURCES: - MCC LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/millennium-challenge-corporation - MCC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccgov/ - Doing Business with MCC: https://www.mcc.gov/work-with-us/mcc-business/ - MCC Business Forecast: https://www.mcc.gov/resources/doc/report-business-forecast/ - Procurements on sam.gov BIOGRAPHY: Alice P. Albright is the Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Challenge Corporation where she provides strategic leadership and vision to the agency helping deliver on programmatic priorities. Ms. Albright has more than 30 years of international experience in the private, non-profit and public sectors. Prior to MCC, Ms. Albright served as the CEO of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). As a political appointee of the Obama Administration, between 2009 and 2013, she was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank). Beforehand, she was the Chief Financial and Investment Officer for the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI). Prior to working in international development and government, Ms. Albright was a banker focusing on emerging markets, working principally at J.P. Morgan. Ms. Albright has served on two G7 Gender Equality Advisory Councils, appointed first by the President of France for the 2019 G7 and subsequently by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for the 2021 G7. Additionally, she has served on the Boards of Williams College and Mercersburg Academy. Ms. Albright received her MIA from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and her BA from Williams College. She is a Chartered Financial Analyst and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and AidKonekt. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Liz Schrayer, President & CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), joins Mike Shanley to discuss election results, takeaways, and USAID funding, the impact on foreign aid and partners, USGLC analysis of results and Impact 2024 work, and what actions listeners can take. Resources https://www.usglc.org/ Join your state Advisory Committee or become a coalition member Interested? Email Alex Grant at AGrant@usglc.org or Dana Bruce at DBruce@usglc.org USGLC’s Global Impact Forum – June 9 & 10, 2025 Follow USGLC on social media @USGLC and join their email list at USGLC.org BIOGRAPHY Liz Schrayer serves as President & CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC), a broad-based coalition of over 500 businesses and NGOs that advocates for strong U.S. global leadership through development and diplomacy. Under her leadership, the USGLC has grown to a nationwide network of advocates in all 50 states and boasts a bipartisan Advisory Council that includes virtually every living former Secretary of State, and a National Security Advisory Council consisting of nearly 200 retired three and four-star generals and admirals. Ms. Schrayer currently serves on the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation’s Development Advisory Council, USAID’s Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid (ACFVA), as well as several advisory boards and committees for the University of Michigan, including the Ford School of Public Policy. She is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. In addition to running the USGLC, Ms. Schrayer serves as President of Schrayer & Associates, Inc., a nationwide consulting firm founded in 1995, which works on a wide range of domestic and international issues. Prior to starting her own firm, Ms. Schrayer served as the national Political Director of AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) for more than a decade. She worked on Capitol Hill, founding the Congressional Human Rights Caucus and in state government. She has traveled across the country organizing citizen advocates in every state. Ms. Schrayer has been published in TIME, Newsweek, USA Today, and The Hill, among other outlets. She has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and resides in Maryland with her husband Jeff Schwaber, an attorney who helped launch the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless. LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and AidKonekt. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.

Sabrina Amburgey, Vice President of Business Development at ACDI/VOCA, Udunopa Abalu, Director of New Business at the International Development Group, Velora Loughmiller, Chief Business Development Officer at Blumont, and Christy Hollywood, Chief Operating Officer at Konektid International join Mike Shanley to discuss 2024 market trends, local partner engagement and how contractors can serve in Localization agenda, sustainability plans, and look ahead to the aid market in 2025. BIOGRAPHIES: Sabrina Amburgey provides leadership to business development at ACDI/VOCA, a US nonprofit that helps people and communities improve their lives by increasing economic prosperity and social inclusion. She has over 25 years of experience in international development in various business development, technical, and project management roles focused on food security, resilience, market systems, agriculture, capacity strengthening, and democracy and governance. As a board member and Global Guidelines Working Group lead for the Agribusiness Market Ecosystem Alliance (AMEA), a global network for accelerating the professionalization of farmer organizations and agri-SMEs, she was instrumental in drafting the recently published ISO18716 Professional Farmer Organization Guidance. Udunopa Abalu is currently Director of New Business at the International Development Group Advisory Services, LLC (IDG), a rapidly growing international development organization works to reduce global poverty through sustainable and inclusive economic development. Udunopa brings over 10 years of experience in new business development and strategic partnerships, development economics, international trade, and private sector development. Prior to IDG, Udunopa worked for Kaizen - A Tetra Tech Company, Improving Economies for Stronger Communities (IESC), KeyLime International, OFED International, and O’Neill Paragon Solutions. Udunopa also consulted for the International Labour Organization (ILO). Udunopa has lived and worked in Nigeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Brazil. She holds an M.A. in International Trade and Investment Policy from George Washington University and a B.S. in Economics and International Studies (with minors in Political Science and Speech Communication) from Iowa State University. During her personal time, Udunopa enjoys reading, bicycling, hiking, traveling, cooking, Zumba, yoga, and meditation. She is also a member of the Association of Women in International Trade. Velora Loughmiller is a leader in strategy, planning, and business development based on two decades of work across the USG, including USAID, Departments of State, Agriculture, Defense, and Energy, as well as an array of bi- and multi-lateral partnerships. When it comes to market analysis, she’s a firm believer that it takes a healthy combination of deep-dive data analysis and leveraging your network, and equally enjoys catching up with colleagues over coffee or nerding out over CBJ details. Velora holds a master’s in European studies, bachelor’s in geography, and is a certified project management professional (PMP). Based in the DC area for fifteen years, you’ll find her enjoying local and regional outdoor haunts for great hiking; continuing to hone covid-era learned skills of bread and candy making; and trying out the many types of cuisine the area has to offer. Christy Hollywood supports Konektid clients and consultants with skills honed during 20+ years of leadership in international development, professional services, and consulting organizations. She led a successful consulting firm of her own for 11 years. Earlier, she served as Vice President for BD of Cardno (a large USAID and MCC contractor, since acquired) and held pivotal business development roles at KPMG’s Emerging Markets Group, RTI International, PATH, as well as Fidelity Investments and Noblis. A recognized expert in business development consulting, she’s authored several articles and is five-time invited presenter at international conferences on proposal management, competitive intelligence, and business development. Resources https://blumont.org/ https://www.internationaldevelopmentgroup.com/ https://www.acdivoca.org/ LEARN MORE Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Aid Market Podcast. You can learn more about working with USAID by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and AidKonekt. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn.