Closing the Communication and Knowledge Gap for Small Businesses in GovCon One of the biggest challenges Government Contractors face is selling their services to the Federal Government. In a market worth billions, competition is high and the sales cycle is long. Small Businesses must be smart about how to spend their time and resources and arm themselves with information that can help them win more at lower cost. Often, companies feel they don’t have enough information to make sales decisions, although the Federal Government makes more information available to the public than any other industry! So, why does it feel sometimes like we’re left in the dark? In this podcast, we aim to provide information and insights from two points of view: Industry and Government. Our hosts each have over 10 years of experience as a Contracting Specialist for a Federal Agency and Business Development for Industry. By creating a conversation about the acquisition lifecycle from our individual points of view, we will close the communication and knowledge gap for Small Businesses in GovCon, allowing them Break their Size Standard!
Breaking Small Business Size Standards in GovCon Podcast
On this episode, we have Alexa Tsui back with us to reflect on her year as Chief Operating Officer at G2X and looking ahead on changing the narrative within GovCon to GovCom. Alexa shares her views on what industry has done well and where industry can continue to improve. Alexa also shares her insight on connection and how it all comes back to people connecting with people. Great conversation - do not miss out! To connect with Alexa, find her on LinkedIn
On this episode, we sat down with Stephanie Geiger to discuss small businesses understanding the market. Stephanie walks us through small businesses asking the questions to ensure they are planning strategically and smartly investing their resources. Do not miss this episode. To connect with Stephanie, find her on LinkedIn Sign up for the Guest List and stay up to date on episodes, information and more
On this episode, we have Dan Hampton with us from the Bank of Clarke to discuss what small businesses need to be bankable. Dan walks us through what it means to be bankable, what small businesses need to know, actions they need to take, and keeping sight of their core business values and never losing sight of their vision. Do not miss out on this insightful conversation. To connect with Dan, find him on LinkedIn. To sign up for the Guest List, click here.
In this episode, we have Troy Francis and Jon Barker with us to discuss fair and reasonable pricing. With both sides of GovCon represented (Government and Industry), listen in as fair and reasonable pricing is viewed, defined and evaluated from both sides. Don't miss out on this unique conversation that offers lots of valuable information that small businesses can apply immediately! To connect with Troy, find him on LinkedIn To connect with Jon, find him on LinkedIn Join the Guest List to stay in the know!
In this episode, we have Kristina Tanasichuk with us from the Government Technology and Services Coalition to talk about understanding the mission and meeting a potential customer. Kristina walks us through what small businesses need to be doing right now, what to consider and how vital that is to connect and meet new customers in the GovCon space. To connect with Kristina, find her on LinkedIn To learn more about GTSC, go to their site here
On this episode, we sit down with Ed DeLisle to discuss everything related to claims within the world of GovCon. Ed walks us through what a claim is, why and when it would be submitted in the procurement process, and what small businesses should consider before submitting a claim. Make sure to listen in before you process or file a claim! To connect with Ed, find him here on LinkedIn If you haven't joined the Guest List make sure you do to stay up to date with emails, episodes and more!
In this episode, we have Brian Chidester with us to discuss six areas of customer experience where Agencies should focus their strategic investments in 2025. Listen in as Brian walks us through what is customer experience, the areas agencies should focus on, and the difference it will make for industry in the GovCon space. Connect with Brian on LinkedIn Listen to the Government Huddle Podcast here Sign up for the Guest List for more information
In this episode, we have Art Trevethan with us to discuss driving solutions and creating tribes. Communities like Tribe can make such a difference for businesses, especially small. Listen in as Art walks through Tribe and the different opportunities it offers. Connect with Art on LinkedIn Join the Guest List and stay in the loop for GovCon topics
In this episode, we have Nikhil Shenoy with us to discuss Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and the elements of it. Listen as Nikhil shares his experience with SBIRs, what the process looks like through Phases I, II and III and what is available for small businesses. Do not miss out on this awesome episode! To connect with Nikhil, find him on LinkedIn Have you joined the Guest List? If not, make sure to so you can receive information about episodes, GovCon insights and more!
In this episode, we have Therman Trotman with talk about all things Sharepoint and how small businesses should be using Sharepoint to their advantage. Therman walks us through how Sharepoint can help streamline processes, cut down on wasted time, and even save lots and lots of headaches and grief. Do not miss out on listening to this episode. Connect with Therman on LinkedIn Have you joined the Guest List? Join to stay up to date on episodes, different ideas and topics.
In this episode, we have Judy Bradt with us to discuss what small businesses should know when it comes to everything that happens before even getting to the RFP. Judy walks us through where small businesses should start, why is it important for small business to engage prior to a requirement or RFP coming out and the difference it could make for small businesses. Don't miss out on a great conversation. To connect with Judy, find her here on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Laura Bennett with us to discuss the bidding process and what goes into that process especially when it comes to risk, building a pipeline and more. Don't miss out on this conversation as it offers a lot of great information! To connect with Laura, find her on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Guest List and get updates on the show as well as different topics, ideas and information.
In this episode, we have Alexander Cohen with us from GovPro AI to discuss how AI can assist small businesses within the GovCon process. Whether it's reviewing and responding to an RFP or a compliance check, AI can play a huge role in helping small businesses reach the finish line. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn Learn more about GovPro AI here
In this episode, we have special guest Jerry Miles with us to discuss joint ventures and the benefits they offer. Joint ventures can be beneficial but also are considered risky. Jerry walks us through the benefits for businesses, the risks, and the steps businesses need to follow to reap the benefits of a joint venture. To connect with Jerry, find him on LinkedIn
On this episode, we have Brian Lindholm with us to discuss Black Hat reviews and the magic they provide. Brian explains the process behind the Black Hat review, what is involved and the value it provides for businesses preparing in the business development and capture process. You do not want to miss what this episode! To connect with Brian find him on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Rebecca Link with us to discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) and what small businesses should consider before using it. Rebecca is not only an advocate for AI, but also an avid user so she explains why it is beneficial to really think through purchasing, using or working with AI for a small businesses. To connect with Rebecca, find her on LinkedIn
On this episode, we sit down with Katelyn Rigle from Defense Contract Audit Agency to discuss breaking into GovCon from a DCAA perspective and what small businesses need to know. Katelyn goes over a lot of information regarding audits that are really essential for all businesses to know about when doing business with the Government. Don't miss out on this vital information. To connect with Katelyn, find her on LinkedIn To see the slides referenced please email for a copy.
In this episode, we have Laura Mills with us to discuss IT Financial Management. Laura walks us through what IT Financial Management is (Laura classifies it as Total Business Management and FinOps) and what small businesses should know about it and the value it provides. Don't miss out on this episode to learn more.
On this episode, we have Guy Timberlake with us to discuss the trends seen in GovCon. Guy shares with us his thoughts about the GovCon industry and what might be missing to make a difference for the future. Guy also shares with us his thoughts on: trends that worked, trends that didn't, possible failures and what trends might make a reappearance in the future. To connect with Guy find him on LinkedIn To learn more about the American Small Business Coalition (The ABSC) click here
In this episode, we have Jaime Gracia with us to discuss the data reported (for this discussion - purchasing) by Government in GovCon. Jaime walks us through the ways that the data is currently underutilized and ways that small businesses can use the data to their advantage. Do not miss out on this conversation and great tips to apply immediately. Connect with Jaime on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Brian Chidester with us to discuss overcoming hurdles when it comes to compliance and what can be done to remove them moving forward. Brian walks us through different hurdles that small businesses should be on the lookout for and how these hurdles can impact potential business in the future. Don't miss out on Brian's enthusiasm and insight! To connect with Brian, find him on LinkedIn Check out the Government Huddle Podcast here
In this episode, we have Dolores Kuschina - Messina with us to discuss what is under the contract hood. Many times, viewing everything under the hood can be extremely overwhelming and scary. Do not fear! Dolores walks us through things to consider, top actions to take and breaks down what the focus should be. Make sure to listen and let us know your thoughts. Connect with Dolores on LinkedIn Learn more about REXOTA here
In this episode, we have Amanda Swanson Goff with us to discuss how small businesses can leverage veteran spouse and military talent. Quite often it's been discussed to hire veterans and the opportunities provided. However, hiring and utilizing veteran and military spouses is not a topic that has been discussed until now. Listen in as Amanda offers how to connect and search for this talent. Disclaimer: “Dr. Goff's views are her own and not a reflection of any employer, past or present.” To connect with Amanda, find her on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Jon Barker with us to discuss the process of selling his business. If you've ever wondered what it looks like, Jon walks us through from beginning to end. He discusses what had him initially say No, what factored into his decision to sell and what life is like now. To connect with Jon, find him on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Tan Wilson from Entellect LLC. to discuss the psychology of why we bid on what we bid on. Tan walks us through how the bid process is impacted when we look at it from psychology versus strategy and how this drives decisions in the GovCon industry. To connect with Tan find her on LinkedIn
in this episode, we have John Ferry from UseRogue.com with us to discuss bringing AI and automation to GovCon. Listen as John shares why GovCon is the perfect space to use AI and automation and some of the amazing results already being produced as seen firsthand with his company. To connect with John, find him on LinkedIn To learn more about UseRogue.com click here
In this episode we have Eric Coffie to discuss all things GovCon. Eric shares with us his journey to GovCon, why he came back to this industry and what he has created to now educate and empower others in the industry. Listen in today and let us know what you think about this inspiring conversation. To connect with Eric and learn more about GovCon Giants, find him on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Will Roberts from ASI Government with us to discuss the generation of GovCon through social media. We take a look at the history of trying to provide education in this industry and the challenge of making it interesting and fun. Will shares with us about the ideas behind the great content and ways to continue to engage and educate the GovCon community. To connect with Will find him on LinkedIn To watch videos from ASI Government on YouTube
In this episode, we have Haley Boulanger from the Pulse of GovCon with us to discuss the hidden gems of Market Research. Haley walks us through what Market Research is, why it matters for industry to conduct it and hidden gems that will be a game changer when conducting Market Research. To connect with Haley find her on LinkedIn To learn more about the Pulse of GovCon click here Resources Haley shared about: Email Subscription Service - Quick Subscribe: https://service.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOL/subscriber/new Federal Acquisition Institute: https://www.fai.gov/ GSA Pricing: https://buy.gsa.gov/pricing/ SBA SubNet: https://subnet.sba.gov/client/dsp_Landing.cfm HHS Employee Directory: https://directory.psc.gov/employee.htm
In this episode, we have Brian Lindholm with us to discuss the sin or misconception of believing that incumbency guarantees a win. Brian explains and walks us through what incumbency is, how it comes into play when a contract comes up for re-compete and the sins that incumbents make when it comes to contracting. To connect with Brian, find him on LinkedIn Check out Brian's blog here
In this episode, we have David Blackburn from OrangeSlices AI with us to discuss Elev8. Elev8 was created to celebrate and recognize government contracting companies and agencies that are doing it the right way. David walks us through the criteria to be nominated and considered for Elev8 and shares what he's seen so far since the creation of this program and what's to come. To connect with David, find him on LinkedIn To learn more about OrangeSlices and Elev8, click here
In this episode, we have Troy Francis, a Contracting Officer from the DC Office of Contracting and Procurement with us. Troy shares with us some of his favorite and least favorite things about being a CO as well as the things he usually never gets to talk about as a CO - which get really juicy. Don't miss it. Connect with Troy on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have Ashley Nicholson, CEO of Avenir Technology with us to discuss demystifying government contracting. In this conversation, we talk about perceptions of government contracting outside of the beltway, realities of government contracting and why this field is so compelling. Don't miss out on a great conversation! Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn
On this episode, we have Shane Prosser with us from GovBrew to discuss the importance of obtaining relevant, accurate information in GovCon. Shane shares how having access to relevant information could be a game changer for the small business government contracting industry. Connect with Shane here on LinkedIn Learn more about GovBrew here Use our code for a discount to sign up for GovBrew insider! https://govbrew.co/upgrade?offer_id=402b9c17-e01f-421a-8f28-1a70c83fb680
In this episode, we have special guest Alexa Tsui with us to discuss the current narrative in GovCon. Alexa, who is a community builder, walks through with us through what it would look like to change the narrative from GovCon to GovCom. Do not miss out on this fantastic conversation! Connect with Alexa here on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have William Randolph with us to discuss the micro purchase threshold and how it could be a huge benefit for small businesses. Learn about how the micro purchase threshold works, what is needed and how businesses can participate. Connect with William on LinkedIn Learn more about MicroMarket.co
In this episode, we have Constance Jackson with us to discuss the unspoken side of Government business. Countless times we have seen, heard or read about where the Government has messed up, today we discuss what the Government does right! Listen in and let us know if you agree. Connect with Constance on LinkedIn
On this episode, we have Kevin Switaj back with us to discuss his new book - Keys to the Castle. Kevin connects Walt Disney and storytelling to the proposal process and explains the changes that need to be made when it comes to writing proposal. Disney fan or not, don't miss out on this episode! Follow Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinswitaj/ Follow BZ Opportunity Management on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bz-opportunity-management/ Get the book - Keys to the Castle by Kevin Switaj: https://www.amazon.com/Keys-Castle-Building-Creativity-Processes/dp/173288143X
In this episode, we have special guest Lisa Shea Mundt from the Pulse of GovCon with us to discuss the foundation of proposals and the overarching process. Lisa explains to us how the proposal process begins ahead of a submission and the steps involved to conduct research and what steps small businesses miss. Do not miss out on this episode to deepen your understanding of the proposal process and the many parts that comprise it. Connect with Lisa here on LinkedIn Learn more about the Pulse of GovCon here
In this episode, we have the one and only Meg O'Hara, Director of Engagement from GovMates, to discuss the magic of federal matchmaking. Meg walks us through GovMates and what it does which involves focusing on buyer requirements versus seller capabilities for upcoming government requirements. What an amazing resource to have for small businesses to connect with other fellow small businesses and large companies! Listen in today to learn more about GovMates. Learn more about GovMates Connect with Meg on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have guest Mark Amtower with us to discuss to use of LinkedIn for the Government Contracting space. This crucial conversation is for small businesses to connect, network and take their businesses to the next level. Don't miss out on this wealth of knowledge and great conversation with Mark.
In this episode, we have guest Teresa Moon from Parablis and Spilling the Tea podcast with us to discuss looking at the big picture as a business in GovCon - specifically when it comes to finding a lending partner. Listen in as Teresa highlights planning ahead, the positives and negatives around having a lending partner and Teresa's "Top Ten" for businesses to have their ducks in a row. Find Teresa here on LinkedIn Find Spilling the Tea Podcast here
In this episode, we have special guest Steven Koprince with us, Facility Instructor and Legal Analyst at Govology. Steven discusses with us the SBA Scorecard, the significance behind it and also how it currently provides a disservice to Small Businesses. If you want to know what these disservices are and more - listen in to the episode now. Find Steven on LinkedIn Here Articles Referenced: https://www.sba.gov/article/2023/07/18/biden-harris-administration-sets-record-breaking-163-billion-federal-procurement-opportunities-small https://www.sba.gov/agency-scorecards/index.html
In this episode, we have special guest Larry Webb, District Director of the Small Business Administration for the Washington Metropolitan Area. Larry shares with us the three C's of the SBA - Contracting, Capital and Counseling and expands on many of the services and opportunities that small businesses do not take advantage of. Additionally, there are hidden resources that Larry shares about with us so don't wait to listen in! Connect with Larry on LinkedIn Small Business District Office Page with each state and local office is linked Here
On this episode, we have special guest Katrina Kenny from Advanced Technology International with us to discuss the OTA Consortium. OTAs are Other Transactional Agreements that are used for different opportunities within the GovCon community. Katrina explains what the OTA Consortium is, what it offers within the DOD community and why companies need to know about this. Please do not wait to listen to this episode! Find Katrina here on LinkedIn Learn more about ATI here
In this episode, we have very special guest Bernita Washington Tardieu from BOOST, LLC. with us to discuss negotiation and deal making in the GovCon space. Bernita offers invaluable feedback for small businesses around knowing your purpose, proper education and knowing your worth. You do not want to miss this episode - to help your business thrive and not just survive. Connect with Bernita on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have special guest Albert Darlington from BOOST LLC to discuss workplace culture, getting to a new normal and what's changed in the last few years. Albert offers some great insight into things to consider before expanding your business. Don't miss out on this episode! Find Albert on LinkedIn
In this episode, we have special guest Jim Campbell from AXIM Solutions and host of the GovCon Secrets podcast here to discuss benefits within GovCon. Specifically being able to navigate between contract requirements and benefit requirements. Not sure what the differences are? Trying to build your staff or respond to an upcoming requirement? This episode is for you. Find Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jvcampbell Listen to GovCon Secrets here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-secrets/id1678083311
In this episode, we have two special guests with us! Daniel Hampton from Bank of Clarke and Matt Stavish from Republic Capital Access join us to discuss financing for Small Businesses and the differences between banks and private capital firms. Listen as Dan and Matt provide some essential information for small businesses to consider before receiving financing, the process for financing and dos and donts in the business. Don't miss out on this amazing episode!
In this episode, we have guest Kevin Jans with us from Skyway Acquisition and the Contracting Officer Podcast to discuss the major pitfalls that small businesses fall into on the post award side. Listen in as we discuss why the post award phase is so crucial for small businesses to focus on, three major pitfalls small businesses make in the post award phase and how to maintain marital bliss with the government and not end in divorce. Find Kevin's podcast here : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/government-contracting-officer-podcast/id946777369
In this episode, we have guest Lisa Rehurek with us from RFP Success Company. Lisa offers her dos and don'ts as well as pitfalls when it comes to RFPs, which can be applied across the board, regardless of who your customer is. We also discuss opportunities at both the state and local level and what that could offer for companies who ultimately would want to work in the Federal government contracting world. Listen in today!
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