Unveiled: GovCon Stories

Today’s episode is for the dreamers and the doers—especially the ones who thought getting a DUNS, a Cage Code, and a nice logo meant they were ready to roll. Let’s be real—there are a lot of misconceptions about how easy it is to “start” in GovCon. The truth? Many businesses start officially, but never truly enter the market. And some find out the hard way that they underestimated the time, money, and focus it takes just to get to the starting line; and in this episode, we’re going to evaluate that. First, we’ll explore the many ways small businesses find their way into this space—some by design, some by default. Then we’ll unpack what it really means to build alignment between your vision, your capacity, and your funding over time. Whether you’re new and exhausted, or established and re-evaluating, this episode is your reminder: It’s not just about getting in—it’s about staying in and growing on purpose. Guest Bio:Shakira (Shak) McCants is the CEO of MacMore, a women owned, Management and IT firm. Shak is a results-driven professional with nearly 20 years of experience in business development, project management, operations management, and strategic planning. She has a demonstrated track record of driving revenue growth and winning new projects through delivery excellence and identifying and transforming clients’ business needs into valued solutions. She was a member of the 2019 American Council for Technical and Industry Advisory Council (ACT-IAC) Voyagers program, served as a Leadership Industry Vice Chair for the 2021 ACT-IAC Associates program and she is currently the Industry Vice Chair for the ACT-IAC IT Management & Modernization Community of Interest and the ACT-IAC Voyagers 25 class. Shak holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of South Alabama. Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:MACMORE: https://www.macmorellc.com/ Follow MACMORE on LinkedInSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s discussion is all about something that doesn’t get talked about enough—but when it happens, it can shake your whole business: termination for convenience. It sounds polite, right? Like the government just doesn’t “need your services anymore.” But for a small business, it can mean canceled plans, stranded staff, sunk costs—and a scramble to recover.In this episode, we’re breaking down what termination for convenience actually is, how it shows up, and what you can do—legally, financially, and strategically—to prepare for it or respond when it hits. Because in GovCon, it’s not always about what you win—it’s about how you withstand the unexpected.Let’s get into it.Guest Bio:CPA at Withum for the Government Contractors group. She has over 18 years of experience in accounting. Lenee assists clients across a broad range of industries to include Government Contracting, Banking and Financial Services, and Manufacturing industries. Her role includes Internal Audit, SOX Compliance, FAR/DFARS Compliance, General Ledger Accounting, and SEC Financial Reporting responsibilities. She has implemented ERP and Financial Systems using Software Development Lifecyle (SDLC) best practices which include documenting business and data requirements, system integration testing, and user acceptance testing.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveilLenee-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feLeneeback and registration form.Links:Learn more about Withum on their websiteEmail Lenee LyteCatch up with Withum at SECAF, SAME, and the VETS2025 conference in Orlando the week of May 12th!Termination for Convenience ChecklistSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore how small businesses can take a smarter, data-driven approach to GovCon with the help of assistive AI. Teaming can accelerate growth or cause setbacks if not managed strategically. We break down the pursuit process, the importance of operational discipline, and how the right tools help you move faster, make better decisions, and protect your team, time, and reputation.Guest Bio:Dr. Gavriel Legynd is CEO of VisioneerIT, a firm delivering enterprise-level digital transformation, marketing, and cybersecurity solutions. With over 20 years in the tech industry, he has held key roles at Booz Allen Hamilton, Northrop Grumman, NIST, HHS, ESRI, CACI, and the U.S. Department of Commerce, where he led security operations for mission-critical systems. He serves on the executive boards of the Disability Law Center of Virginia and the Sam & Devorah Foundation for Trans Youth, and co-chairs the NGLCC Trans and Gender Non-Conforming Inclusion Taskforce. A dedicated mentor, Dr. Legynd supports CivStart GovTech, FusionCyber, and Virginia SMART Communities STEM. He’s a former VP of the African American Marketing Association and has spoken at Inc. 5000, NGLCC, the Congressional LGBT+ Equality Caucus, and Johns Hopkins Business School. His education includes a journalism degree from George Mason, a master’s in network security, a PhD in computer science, and a law degree.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:VisioneerIT: https://www.visioneerit.com/ OryonIQ: https://www.oryoniq.com/ - Government contracting is a numbers game.  The more connections, the more opportunities. Using OryonIQ will help you find connections that lead to pipeline growth.Connect with Gavriel on LinkedInFollow VisioneerIT on LinkedInSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Season 4 blow‑out finale of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we weave together powerful insights from thought‑provoking conversations to understand what it truly takes for small businesses—and especially Woman‑Owned Small Businesses—to thrive in government contracting. We unpack how some guests turned major contract losses into strategic wins, the misconceptions they faced about readiness and resilience, the role of AI and team collaboration in navigating SLED vs. federal markets, and how political shifts, contract terminations, and agency reorganizations reshaped their playbooks. We hear from those who treated strategy not as theory, but as a living, operational tool, and how clarity of purpose became their margin of advantage. Throughout, financial resilience, market diversification, and embracing innovation emerge not as luxuries, but necessities. This episode offers an unapologetically real reflection on GovCon’s triumphs, setbacks, and what lies ahead—and why preparedness is now the real differentiator for small businesses in this space.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Withum – A forward-thinking, tech-driven advisory and accounting firm supporting businesses through the full GovCon lifecycleFollow Withum on LinkedInSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, Mac Liu, CEO of Vultron, and Noura Bashshur, Sr. Director of Growth, discuss how AI is transforming GovCon BD. From proposal sprints to intelligent automation, they break down what makes GovCon unique—and why now is the time to evolve. Mac shares lessons from Google and DoD innovation, while Noura offers real-world guidance on using AI to boost proposal quality and delivery. Whether you're after city, civilian, or defense contracts, this one’s for you.Guest Bio:Mac Liu is the CEO of Vultron and a seasoned engineering leader with experience at Google, Robinhood, and Anduril. He’s led major defense projects with NASA, DoD, and the U.S. Space Force—scaling contracts to $240M. At Vultron, he’s applying that cross-sector expertise to help GovCon teams win smarter with AI-powered solutions.Noura Bashshur is Vultron’s Senior Director of Growth, leading strategy, partnerships, and AI-driven innovation in GovCon. With 7+ years in federal contracting, she’s led multi-million-dollar wins, built federal health practices, and brings deep expertise in BD, capture, and tech-enabled healthcare. Noura holds a Master’s in Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about UnveilLenee: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveilLenee-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Learn more about Vultron, request a demoCheckout Vultron’s AI-Powered Federal Proposal Development Platforms: Evaluation Framework and FactorsSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The GovCon landscape continues to shift under our feet. Agencies are reorganizing rapidly—driven more by politics than strategy. Budgets are in flux. Priorities are shifting. Entire programs are being paused, rebranded, or canceled.Here’s the reality: a few good tactics won’t cut it. In uncertain times, the businesses that survive—and grow—are those with strategies clear enough to guide decisions, yet flexible enough to evolve. Without that, you're not navigating change—you’re being swept up by it.In this episode, we unpack what happens when strategy takes a back seat and why now, more than ever, small businesses must pair big-picture thinking with tactical precision to stay competitive in a market where tomorrow’s rules are changing today.Guest Bio:Jazmen Jackson is a strategy consultant who helps small businesses grow with clarity and confidence. With over 10 years of experience working with entrepreneurs, family-run companies, and early-stage startups, Jazmen specializes in simplifying strategic planning, identifying growth opportunities, and turning everyday challenges into smart, actionable strategies.Rather than offering one-size-fits-all advice, Jazmen works directly with business owners to create clear, practical plans—whether it’s refining a business model, improving operations, or charting a course for sustainable growth. Clients appreciate her down-to-earth style, no-jargon communication, and genuine investment in their success.Jazmen holds a certificate in Strategic Management from Georgetown University and is a Certified Project Management Professional, Senior Business Strategy Professional, and Project Management Office - Certified Practitioner. She has experience in business process improvement, and small business consulting, equipping her with both the tools and insights to deliver real results—without the corporate fluff.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Standard Strategy (STS) GroupAccess the Strategy Under Pressure: Action GuideSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Government contracting promises big wins—but it’s not always what it seems. In this episode, we unpack the hard truths about teaming, trust, and the unpredictable nature of GovCon. When the roadmap fails and partnerships fall through, how do small businesses recover?Tune in for a cautionary tale of perseverance, fine print, and the harsh realities behind the pursuit of federal contracts.Guest Bio:Dr. LaShonda Bracey is an entrepreneur, author, and government contracting expert with a background in Chemistry, Biology, Education, and Technology. As CEO of Health-Works1 LLC, she leads strategic consulting in contracting, acquisition, training, and course development for government agencies and small businesses.With years of experience designing training programs for federal organizations, Dr. Bracey bridges technical expertise and practical application, making her a leader in workforce development and acquisition strategy. She’s the author of A-Z Guide to Government Contracting and a passionate advocate for small business success, offering mentorship and tech-driven solutions to help companies grow and secure contracts.She regularly shares her insights through events, panels, and trainings, empowering others to thrive in the federal marketplace.Call(s) to Action:8 Week Government Contracting Challenge7 Day Government Contracting Challenge! Starting March 16th Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesLinks:Health Works: http://www.health-works1.com/index.html LaShonda Bracey: https://www.LaShondaBracey.com     The Training Series: 2025 Government Contracting Mastery SeriesSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we explore what happens when innovation meets bureaucracy in government contracting. Dean Niedosik shares how his team developed a promising cyber/AI product—only to have progress stalled by the pandemic and ultimately shut down by corporate decision-making. He reflects on navigating leadership hurdles, the shift to small business agility, and the balance between structure and creativity. It’s a candid look at resilience, pivoting under pressure, and rethinking innovation in federal markets.Dean Niedosik is the Director of Growth at HumanTouch (HT), with over 20 years of experience in strategic innovation, tech sales, and systems integration across the public and private sectors. He leads business development, capture, and marketing to drive federal sector growth through data management and AI/NLP solutions. His career includes building the Red Bull brand, launching Alcatel Mobile’s IP products, and leading strategic innovation at Booz Allen. Dean also co-chairs AFCEA’s International Small Business Committee and Innovation Roundtable, championing small business success in government markets.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:HumanTouch: https://www.humantouchllc.com/ Case Studies & Insights: https://www.humantouchllc.com/blog  HumanTouch Capability Statement HumanTouch SolutionsSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re in a season of disruption—political shifts, evolving policies, contracting delays, and social tensions are impacting how business gets done, especially in the federal space. If you’re a small business owner or leader trying to make sense of how to stay relevant—or just stay open—you’re not alone.In this episode, we’re unpacking how to navigate the high-stakes environment of public sector contracting when the rules seem to keep changing. We’ll explore how policy, politics, and procurement slowdowns intersect with real-world business survival.Then, we’ll shift gears and talk about tangible strategies to pivot smartly—without losing your footing. Whether you're repositioning your offers, realigning with a new customer, or expanding to commercial markets, this conversation is your guide to pivoting with power, not panic.Guest Bio:Shaun Edens founded Lucky Rabbit in 2020 and has since led its growth into a trusted digital modernization partner for agencies like USCIS, OPM, CMS, GSA, and ED, as well as commercial clients like CrabPlace.com. With a background in senior roles at firms including CTEC, TechFlow, Enlightened, and Booz Allen Hamilton, he brings deep expertise in agile transformation, cloud migration, DevSecOps, and enterprise architecture.Shaun holds an MBA from the University of Illinois and a B.S. in Computer Science from Morehouse College. He’s certified in SAFe, Scrum, Product Ownership, and AWS, and skilled in tools like ReactJS, Go, Python, and CI/CD pipelines. Focused on innovation and transparency, Shaun continues to lead Lucky Rabbit in delivering human-centered, secure digital solutions that drive real impact.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Lucky RabbitLucky Rabbit BlueTechFollow Lucky Rabbit on LinkedInAccess the Pivot Readiness ChecklistSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bidding on government contracts is tough—especially for small businesses facing limited past performance and resource constraints. A loss can be discouraging, but it can also be a catalyst for growth.In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, PBG Consulting’s President & CEO Pawla Ghaleb and People & Culture Lead Irina Batchelor share how a major GovCon loss reshaped their strategy. They discuss the challenges, lessons learned, and key adjustments that strengthened their future proposals.This candid conversation goes beyond the success stories, offering real insights on resilience, strategy, and innovation in government contracting. Tune in to learn how setbacks can become stepping stones to GovCon success.Guest Bio:Pawla Ghaleb, CEO of PBG Consulting, is a trailblazing leader with over 20 years in IT solutions, strategic consulting, and program management. Under her leadership, PBG has earned accolades like The Washington Post’s Top Workplaces and the Department of State’s Small Business Prime Contractor of the Year. A multilingual leader from Lebanon, she champions diversity and innovation, driving PBG’s growth in the federal space.Guided by her mantra, “Doing more with less,” Pawla delivers cutting-edge solutions to agencies like State, HHS, and OPM. A mentor and industry influencer, her leadership has earned awards such as the G2X FedCiv Leading for Impact Award and Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching. With an MBA from George Washington University and completion of Harvard Business School’s OPM Program, she continues to shape the future of GovCon.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:PBG: https://pbgconsult.com/ The PBG Gov Blog: https://pbgconsult.com/blog/ Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Government contracting is always unpredictable, but in today’s political climate, it feels downright chaotic. Shutdown threats, shifting acquisition priorities, and evolving small business policies create a turbulent landscape for small GovCon firms. In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we break down how political uncertainty is impacting contract opportunities, funding reliability, and long-term planning. From budget battles and leadership changes to policy shifts affecting small business set-asides, we examine the risks GovCon firms face and strategies to stay resilient. If you’ve been feeling the squeeze, you’re not alone—let’s talk about it.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Congressional Budget Office (CBO) – Reports on government spending, budget delays, and economic projectionsU.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – Updates on small business set-aside programs, compliance changes, and GovCon resourcesFederal News Network – Insights on acquisition policy changes and political shifts impacting federal contractorsCongress.gov – Follow federal legislation affecting GovCon firms, including budget resolutions and procurement policiesSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we wrap up the fall season of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we’re diving into one of the biggest challenges for small businesses in government contracting (GovCon): access to funding. This season finale explores how alternative lending solutions help businesses overcome cash flow hurdles and seize new opportunities.We’re joined by Teresa Moon, Director of Business Development and Marketing at Parabilis and host of Spilling the Tea on GovCon. With her extensive experience in business development and relationship building, Teresa shares practical insights into bridging financial gaps in GovCon.This episode covers:How alternative funding differs from traditional financing.Key factors for evaluating funding options.Common mistakes in seeking funding and how to avoid them.Lessons and success stories from helping contractors thrive.Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation! Guest Bio:Teresa Moon, Director of Market Strategy at Parabilis and host of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, leverages her expertise in government procurement to drive communication strategies and expand Parabilis’ impact in the federal contracting community.Focused on fostering strategic collaborations, Teresa has built a growing network of resources to empower businesses in achieving their goals. Known for her integrity and commitment, she cultivates lasting relationships that deliver meaningful results.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Parablis – Innovations in Business Finance: https://parabilis.com/ Spilling the Tea Podcast - https://parabilis.com/spilling-the-tea/ Latest GovCon Insights: https://parabilis.com/insights/ Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You don’t often hear about family businesses in government contracting. However, today we’re talking with a guest from a small, family-owned company undergoing two major transitions: breaking into the federal market and passing the leadership torch from mother to daughter.This isn’t just a succession story; it’s a reinvention. With new opportunities come challenges: navigating complex procurement processes, meeting compliance requirements, and climbing a steep learning curve—all while leveraging a tight-knit team and years of expertise. But the real story lies at the intersection of family and business. How do you honor a legacy while forging a bold new path? And how do you lead through a changing political and economic landscape?Join us as we unpack this family’s journey of growth, resilience, and adaptation in an ever-evolving world. This is a story about more than just business—it’s about leadership, resilience, and the courage to evolve Guest Bio:Ynette Evans is the Operations and Marketing Director of GME Enterprises, a DMV-based management consulting firm specializing in risk and operations management. With over a decade of experience, Ynette oversees operations, marketing, and branding, driving sales and awareness. A Hampton University graduate with a B.S. in Marketing, she has worked with nonprofits, businesses, and government organizations to craft impactful messaging and visuals.Gwen Muse-Evans, GME’s President and CEO, has 27+ years of experience in financial services, including executive roles at Fortune 50 companies, where she implemented effective risk management platforms. Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon StoriesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:GME Enterprises Website: Follow GME Enterprises on LinkedIn!GME Enterprises Capability StatementSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we’re diving into the essential operational needs that impact every GovCon business. Retaining top talent, managing business, cyber, and compliance risks, and meeting strict regulatory requirements are all critical for success in a field where competition for human capital and contracts is fierce. So, what ties all these elements together? Glad you asked! It’s a topic that might make some sigh or brace themselves: insurance. But this won’t be your typical insurance chat. This episode delivers actionable insights for GovCon leaders aiming to build a resilient, compliant, and employee-centered foundation as they grow. Stay tuned for valuable insider knowledge to elevate your business!Guest Bio:Kevin FitzPatrick is the CEO of the Government Technology Insurance Company (GovTech) and a Partner at The Baldwin Group leading their GovCon Center of Excellence. With over 25 years in the insurance industry, he has founded several companies in Washington, D.C., including The Capital Group, which was acquired by The Baldwin Group in 2021. Kevin frequently speaks to business leaders in the D.C. tech and GovCon sectors about healthcare insurance strategy and managing fringe and employee benefit costs.Before establishing The Capital Group, he held executive positions at MetLife and New York Life. Kevin serves on the boards of the Northern Virginia Tech Council, the GovConNet Council, and the Government Technology Association. Kevin resides in Chevy Chase, Maryland; and he enjoys spending time on the water, particularly in St. Michaels, Maryland. He is also a proud parent of two University of Miami students – GO CANES!Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:GovTechThe Baldwin GroupThe Baldwin Group Center of ExcellenceGovCon HR ForumSponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories dives into the Rule of Two, a vital policy ensuring federal contracts are set aside for small businesses. The SBA’s proposed updates aim to expand its application to task and delivery orders under Multiple Award Contracts (MACs), potentially adding $6 billion in small business opportunities.While promising, these changes bring challenges, including loopholes, administrative burdens, and market uncertainty. In this episode, we explore the potential impacts, strategies to stay competitive, and ways small businesses can advocate for themselves.Tune in to learn how to adapt and position your business for success.Call to ActionAdvocate for your business by submitting feedback on the proposed rule changes: SBA Public Comment Portal.Helpful Links•Small Business Act Overview - SBA•Federal Register - SBA Proposed Rule•Tolliver Group Case Summary - COFC•SBA Regulatory Impact Analysis•SBA Resources for Small Businesses•GAO Reports on Contracting•SBA Mentor-Protégé Program•InfoSquirrel•SECAF•Optimized Technical Solutions, Inc.•Women Impacting Public PolicySponsorsThe views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the endorsements of our sponsors.Thank you to Withum, our Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a technology-driven advisory and accounting firm helping clients excel in today’s complex business environment. Learn more at Withum’s website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we’re diving into one of the most transformative technologies in government contracting today: artificial intelligence. AI is no longer just a buzzword or a tool for tech giants—it’s an accessible and powerful solution for small businesses in the GovCon space. From automating time-consuming tasks like research and proposal writing to enhancing project management with real-time data insights, AI is revolutionizing how contractors work. Imagine offloading repetitive processes to AI-driven tools while staying on top of compliance requirements. Picture leveraging these tools to streamline operations, boost capacity, and improve security protocols. The potential is immense, and today we’re unpacking how small businesses can harness AI to gain a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of government contracting. Joining us for this conversation are two experts from Withum: Lenee Lyte, Principal CPA for the Government Contractors Advisory, and Gareth Patterson, Lead AI Engineer. Together, they explore the real-world applications of AI for small businesses in GovCon, share practical advice on staying compliant in a rapidly evolving landscape, and discuss what’s next for Withum. Tune in to discover how AI can help your business work smarter, faster, and more securely.Guest Bios:Lenee Lyte is a Principal CPA at Withum, specializing in Government Contractors. With 18+ years of experience, she provides expertise in FAR/DFARS compliance, audits, and financial systems implementation.Gareth Patterson is a Lead AI Engineer at Withum Digital. Previously at Endava, he worked on fraud detection and enterprise-level AI solutions. Gareth also biked across the country for charity, raising $500K to support people with disabilities—a journey that built lasting connections.Links:Learn more about Withum on their websiteConnect with Lenee Lyte on LinkedInConnect with Gareth Patterson on LinkedInEmail Lenee LyteAI Watch - Global Regulatory Tracker: United StatesSponsorsThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rangena Hotaki, CEO of Designovation, leads a professional services firm that integrates design thinking and disruptive innovation to drive mission achievement across Grants Management & Outreach, Business Process Optimization & Transformation, Strategic Planning & Communications, Finance & Risk Management, and Portfolio, Program, and Project Management.With two decades of experience in strategy, IT, and operations consulting, she is an expert in Federal financial services and multiple industries, passionately enhancing operations to deliver customer-centric solutions for complex challenges.Rangena leverages research, analysis, and industry insights to create and implement innovative methods, frameworks, and roadmaps to solve client business issues. A mentee of the late Clayton Christensen at Harvard, she is well-versed in disruptive innovation theories. Embracing design thinking later on, she found combining both methodologies vital to organizational evolution. She inspires her team to deliver collaboratively, coaching and mentoring professionals to reach their career goals and add value.She has worked at various strategy and technology consulting firms. She holds a B.A. in Economics & Spanish with minors in Biochemistry and Religious Studies from the University of Virginia and an MBA from Harvard Business School, as well as a Design Thinking certificate from MIT.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Designovation Website: https://www.do-strategies.com/Designovation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/designovation-strategies Rangena Hotaki LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rangenahotaki Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore how breaking from a traditional career path led to the launch of a successful GovCon business and a non-profit that empowers women-owned small businesses in the government sector. Our guest, Johanna Yi, founder and CEO of For People, shares her unique journey, discussing how her background shaped her leadership style, created smart data solutions for government, and addressed the social determinants of health. We dive into her mission of expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs in GovCon.Guest Bio:Johanna Yi leads For People, a mission-driven organization transforming government services through robust data ecosystems. With significant experience in Medicaid and data initiatives, Johanna drives impactful policy and tech solutions and is also VP of the Digital WOSB Alliance, promoting women-led GovCon businesses.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Digital WOSB Alliance: https://www.digitalwosballiance.org/ For People: https://forpeople.us/ Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!Hive39 Community by Twenty39Twenty39 – simplifying the complexity in pursuing government contracts and hosts an inclusive online community for GovCon Small Businesses and Consultants to learn, share, and grow. Receive free resources to support your business in pursuing government contracts; and meet new partners, identify small business relevant events, and cost appropriate vendor resources, stay up to date on policy and legal changes impacting small business, and share 1099 and partnership opportunities. Join today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we explore the world of government contracting during a presidential election year, a time historically filled with uncertainties. While election years always stir questions about budget priorities and future policies, small businesses in GovCon continue to push forward with innovation, resilience, and optimism. We will focus on how small businesses can maintain stability and seize opportunities, regardless of the political climate, and examine key trends reshaping the market.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breaking into government contracting is a challenge for small businesses, and the Aerospace and Defense sector adds another layer of complexity. In this episode, we provide insights into best practices for small businesses pursuing opportunities in this high-demand industry. Learn how to build relationships with key stakeholders, navigate the government procurement process, manage lengthy timelines, and identify the right partners. Whether you’re new to the sector or looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode offers actionable advice to help your business thrive.Guest Bio:Our guest, Dwight Deneal, serves as the Assistant Administrator for NASA’s Office of Small Business Programs. He brings over a decade of experience in leading small business and federal acquisition programs, having previously directed programs for the Defense Logistics Agency and the U.S. Coast Guard. Mr. Deneal is also the Vice Chairman of the Federal Interagency OSDBU Directors Council, a key platform for collaboration among federal small business programs. He holds a Business Management degree from Hampton University and completed executive education at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Download the NASA Mobile Application at [add link]TBD [Note to NASA: please add any calls to action you want to include in the show notes]Links:NASA Office of Small Business Programs: https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/ Doing Business with NASA: https://www.nasa.gov/doing-business-with-nasa-osbpNASA Vendor Database: https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/vendor-database/ NASA Active Contract Listing (ACL): https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/active-contract-listings/ TBD [Note to NASA: please add any links you want to share in the show notes]Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.