Podcasts about government contracting

Government contracting tools can either accelerate your business or waste hours of your week clicking between SAM.gov, FPDS, USAspending, and Google Sheets. In this episode Eric Coffie breaks down why most small business contractors are still piecing together free platforms when an all in one system already exists. If you want to know what tools you should be using to grow your federal business, this conversation lays out the new direction and what it means for you. Why piecing together SAM.gov, FPDS, USAspending, and GSA Calc is slowing down your contract pipeline and costing you bids How the Market Intelligence platform delivers daily briefings tied to your NAICS codes and custom keywords The Rule of Two strategy and how aggregated member data can flip full and open opportunities into set asides Why moving from a training company to a SaaS platform changes how small businesses access education and tools How replacing multi step research with one login frees you up to actually pursue and win contracts EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Welcome to the Federal Help Center podcast 0:24 - New alert system briefing tool and dashboard announcement 1:00 - Setting up profiles NAICS codes and keywords 1:53 - Pivoting from training company to SaaS platform 2:22 - Rule of two strategy for flipping set asides 3:00 - Subscription model and access to the platform 6:39 - YouTube content shifting to tool based training 7:58 - One login replaces FPDS pivot tables and sheets Mindy gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

Marketing a GSA schedule the right way can completely change how a small business grows inside federal contracting, especially when AI and cybersecurity are reshaping every RFI and RFP hitting the street. In this episode Zack Golden and the GovCon Giants team break down how active contractors, aspiring consultants, and entrepreneurs can position themselves around the hottest demand signals in the federal market right now, including AI governance, autonomous systems, and the massive Air Force Research Lab opportunity coming out of contract. Here is what you will learn in this episode: How to market a GSA schedule by expanding divisions, leaning into industry days, and using local site visits to win agency attention Why AI governance and AI security layers are showing up on nearly every federal RFI and RFP and how to position a client or your own company to capture that demand How to become a govcon consultant for AI and tech companies without burning out by managing one client to maintenance mode before signing the next How to build complementary teams by pairing AI companies with audit trail, robotics, and aerospace firms to deliver true turnkey solutions to federal buyers How to chase the $10 billion Air Force Research Lab AI IDIQ and other large vehicles by partnering with primes, IDIQ holders, and GSA schedule holders already inside the door EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Meet Mindy your federal opportunity AI assistant 0:30 - Welcome to the Federal Help Center podcast 0:52 - Marketing a GSA schedule for small business 1:21 - Expanding divisions into cybersecurity and maintenance services 1:50 - Industry day strategy for GSA schedule holders 2:20 - Inside the OpenCube IQ AI tools and CRM 2:49 - Using AI agents for capability statements and FAR research 3:19 - Consulting opportunities with AI governance companies 3:48 - Why AI is the federal buzzword every agency wants 4:16 - Managing multiple consulting clients without burning out 4:44 - Building complementary teams around AI governance and audit trails 5:41 - Finding partner companies that compliment your AI offering 6:37 - Chasing the $10 billion Air Force Research Lab AI IDIQ 7:07 - Robotics autonomous systems and secured AI document platforms 8:03 - Adding AI offerings to existing GSA schedules and IDIQs Mindy gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

Luke Levasseur and Keeley McCarty, partners at Fox Rothschild, join host Roger Waldron on this week's Off the Shelf for an in-depth discussion of the current government contracts compliance, bid protest, and regulatory environment. Levasseur and McCarty discuss the interplay between the Civil False Claims Act and the Trump administration's focus on DEI, including the potential impact of the new DEI clause. They also talk about current bid protest trends and the “loser pays” provision in the FY2026 NDAA. Finally, Levasseur and McCarty share some initial impressions regarding the RFO. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most losing proposals are not terrible. They're just neutral. Polished and professional and still losing - because they gave evaluators nothing specific to score. In this episode, I break down the single biggest misunderstanding in proposal development: most companies treat proposals as a writing problem. They focus on sounding professional, telling their story, and making a great impression. But proposals are not scored on how impressive they sound. They are scored against evaluation criteria. And those are not the same thing. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:Why evaluators are building a scoring record — not reading for entertainment What neutral content is and why it costs you contracts you were qualified to win The difference between a paragraph that describes your company and a paragraph that earns a strength The one question to ask about every paragraph in your next proposal draft Why winning proposals are built — not written SHARE THIS EPISODE: If this episode made you think about your proposals differently, share it with someone on your team who needs to hear it. There are a lot of companies working hard on proposals that are losing for reasons that are completely fixable.The Book — A Field Guide to Winning Proposals: Nine steps that turn proposal writing into easy "bite size" chunks that result in higher scoring proposals. A complete method — from RFP to a proposal that scores. Click here to get it on Amazon Available in Paperback and for Kindle. 

Government contract bid opportunities on SAM.gov refresh every single week with 500 or more new sources sought notices spanning every industry imaginable, and most small businesses never see them. In this live session, Eric Coffie logs directly into SAM.gov, downloads the latest opportunities into Excel, and walks through dozens of real contracts available right now in fields from locksmith services and paper shredding to nursing staffing, call center support, cloud infrastructure, and demolition. If you have been waiting for the right time to get into federal contracting, this session shows you exactly where to look and why the timing has never been more urgent. What you will learn in this episode: How to pull Sources Sought notices from SAM.gov, filter by update date, and download them into Excel for fast, organized review across all industries Why the barriers you think exist in federal contracting, including licenses, certifications, and security clearances, are almost never listed as actual requirements on the solicitation How small businesses have a structural pricing advantage over large companies, and why large firms frequently skip contracts under $100K even when fully capable Why companies with the relevant skills (locksmiths, shredders, towing companies, nursing staffers) are not on SAM.gov, and how that gap is your direct entry point What the government actually evaluates when judging your readiness: your SAM.gov SBA profile completeness, your capability statement quality, and the recency and relevance of your past performance EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Encore Funding sponsor intro and welcome 1:00 - Government contracting as an inflation hedge right now 4:35 - Why now is the time to enter federal procurement 7:30 - SAM.gov homepage walkthrough and search setup 8:45 - Why students are winning contracts directly from SAM 11:00 - Small business pricing advantage over large companies 17:00 - Why licenses and certifications are not required to bid 28:15 - How to filter Sources Sought and export to Excel 30:30 - Live review of real open opportunities across industries 36:15 - Locksmith services opportunity at Dept. of Homeland Security 40:20 - Towing and shredding contracts no one else is bidding on 54:25 - Why large competitors avoid SAM registration entirely 59:00 - Submitting a capability statement is all that is required 1:03:25 - Construction, call center, VA, and translation contract deep dives 1:20:30 - SBA profile comparison and what contracting officers actually check 1:23:50 - Closing message on capability statements and SBA profile readiness   Market Intelligence gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government, requiring extra justification and senior approval when agencies want to do something else. That shift could reshape how contracting officers plan, justify and manage major programs, according to Senior Fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting, Emily Murphy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A recent settlement involving IBM has drawn broad attention across the federal contracting community, drawing attention well beyond the specifics of a single company. For many contractors, the case raises questions about how workplace initiatives intersect with long‑standing employment and contracting rules. Joining me with more details is Sheila Abron, Partner at Fisher Phillips and Chair of the Firm's Government Contracting, Compliance, and Reporting Practice Group.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your proposal sounds professional. It covers every requirement. It reads like a proposal should. And it's losing to companies with the same experience, qualifications, and past performance as yours. The reason isn't your writing. You're losing because you're neutral.  In this episode, we break down what neutral means in proposal scoring, what it takes to earn a strength instead, and the hidden risk that's lowering your scores even when everything looks solid. Rick Porterfield has 40+ years in government contracting — managing and writing proposals, winning many, losing some he should have won, and figuring out why good proposals still lose. He's helped clients win a nationwide contracts, positions on major federal vehicles including GWACs, and improve scoring outcomes across multiple competitive bids. In this episode:What “neutral” means in proposal scoring — and why it losesThe three things every paragraph must do to score well Why proposal evaluators are risk-averse — and how to use that to your advantageThree specific risk signals that lower your score on every bidThe one test to apply to every paragraph before it goes in the proposalWhy rewriting usually doesn't improve your scoreWhere AI fits into all of this If you act on this episode: Your proposals will give evaluators something to score that your competitors aren't giving them.  Proposal Prompt Pack — $197 (Instant Download): 15 copy and paste prompts that build the proposal strategy, draft the proposal and evaluate it, and score your proposal before the evaluator does. Works with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini — any AI tool you already use. Click here to get it now The Book — A Field Guide to Winning Proposals with AI: Nine steps. Each produces a deliverable that feeds into the next step. A complete method — from RFP to a proposal that scores. Click here to get it on AmazonMore resources: winninggovernmentcontracts.comIf you don't act: Companies that keep producing neutral proposals will keep losing to companies that know how to score.  Don't be the wallflower. Get on the dance floor!

If you're using AI to write proposals and still not winning — this episode is for you. You will find out how to use AI to win, not just write. The problem isn't your AI tool. It isn't your writing team. It isn't the competition. It's that AI is producing proposals that look good, sound right, cover all the requirements — but score neutral. And neutral doesn't win awards. In this episode, Rick Porterfield — 40+ years in government contracting, helping clients win billions in federal work — breaks down the disconnect that's costing you contracts you should be winning. And what to do about it. In this episode:Why AI-generated proposal content scores neutral — and why neutral losesWhat government evaluators are actually doing when they read your proposal (it's not what you think)The constraints that force evaluators to justify every score in writing — and how that affects your writingWhy your technical proposal is evaluated — and what that means for how you structure itThe difference between writing a proposal and building a scoring argumentWhy AI fails without a method — and what the method actually does The Book: A Field Guide to Winning Proposals with AI by Rick PorterfieldNine steps. Each step produces a deliverable. Each deliverable feeds the next one. By the end, you don't have a proposal that actually scores high. Built on your experience and qualifications, and aligned to what the evaluators are actually looking for.Click here to get the Book on Amazon Available as Kindle eBook. Paperback coming soon. Click here to get my AI proposal writing prompt pack. A copy and paste Word doc that works with all AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc.)   

If you want to know how to get better clients in government contracting, this episode breaks down the real challenges behind finding—and keeping—the right partners. It's not just about getting clients… it's about getting quality clients who understand the process and are ready to win. In this episode, we dive into the realities of business development (BD) and capture strategy, including how to set realistic expectations with new clients and avoid common frustrations. You'll also learn practical ways to demonstrate your value early, communicate effectively, and position yourself as a strategic partner—not just a service provider. We also cover smart outreach techniques, including how to connect with program offices, leverage referrals, and use teaming strategies to grow through subcontracting opportunities. Key takeaways include: Why "good clients" are harder to find than contracts How to show value using data, competitors, and opportunities Proven outreach and teaming strategies to build strong partnerships If you're serious about growing in GovCon, this episode gives you the mindset and tactics to do it right. If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding

What is government contracting? | From setback to small business owner In my last episode, I shared something personal — I got fired. And instead of letting that break me, I made a decision: I was going to build something of my own. That decision led me straight to government contracting. In this episode, I break down exactly what government contracting (GovCon) is — in plain English. No jargon, no gatekeeping. Just a real conversation about how everyday small business owners like you and me can get paid by the U.S. government to provide goods and services.

Government contracting consultants who struggle to sign new clients are often missing one thing: proof. In this episode of the Federal Help Center Podcast, Eric Coffey breaks down the exact presentation strategy he uses to walk small businesses through the federal market data they never knew existed — and turn skeptics into signed clients. In this episode you'll learn: How to build a market data pitch using NAICS codes and SAM.gov spending reports — Eric walks through a real Arizona-based precast concrete company and reveals how $222 million in missed federal contracts closed the deal before terms were even discussed. The "missed opportunity" slide that sells for you — Learn how to show prospects three years of federal spending in their industry and geography so they feel the urgency without a hard sell. How to structure your consultant onboarding roadmap — From the initial Q&A to SAM.gov registration, capability statements, and JV teaming opportunities, Eric lays out the exact sequence he uses with new clients. What to ask in your discovery questionnaire — The three things Eric always needs to know: current revenue, geographic footprint, and scaling ability — and why the answer to "can you handle a $500K contract next week?" tells you everything. The a-la-carte consulting model — Why Eric moved away from broad "BD services" and toward a targeted, pick-and-choose service menu that matches what clients actually need.   EPISODE CHAPTERS:  0:00 - Introduction to the Federal Help Center Podcast 0:27 - Why Eric consults instead of contracting directly 1:27 - Case study: Arizona precast concrete company with zero federal experience 2:25 - Pulling NAICS code spending data to build your pitch 3:18 - The $222 million missed opportunity slide that closes clients 4:44 - Showing small business set-asides and example federal projects 5:44 - Building an a-la-carte consulting service menu for clients 6:39 - Consultant onboarding roadmap: SAM.gov, teaming, and capability statements 7:31 - Discovery questionnaire: revenue, geography, and scaling ability   Join our community of entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs win federal contracts. If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding

Finding government contracting points of contact before the RFP drops is one of the most powerful moves a small business can make in federal BD. In this episode, host Eric Coffey walks through his exact process for identifying and reaching the right people inside federal agencies — using free, publicly available tools — so you're building relationships during the planning phase, not scrambling when the solicitation hits. What you'll learn in this episode: How to use Acquisition Gateway to uncover real names and emails — including small business contacts and program managers tied to specific forecast opportunities Why industry day PDFs are a goldmine — Eric breaks down how the MICC (Mission and Installation Contracting Command) industry day reveals names, responsibilities, and project types most contractors never bother to find How to use SAM.gov to access archived industry day documents — including historical MICC PDFs packed with incumbent info, partner agencies, and organizational contacts The LinkedIn and AI research method for profiling contacts once you've identified them from forecast listings The exact outreach framing to use when cold-contacting a POC you found through a forecast — so you don't get ignored EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Introduction to the Federal Help Center podcast 0:27 - Why BD before the RFP is the winning strategy 1:26 - Using Acquisition Gateway to find forecast opportunities 2:13 - Filtering agency forecasts by NAICS code and set-aside 2:43 - Finding small business contacts inside forecast listings 3:42 - Researching program managers and end users on LinkedIn 4:40 - Using AI and Google to profile hard-to-find contacts 5:38 - How to approach a cold outreach to a forecast POC 6:07 - MICC industry day PDFs as a federal contacts goldmine 7:06 - Army Corps of Engineers and other industry day resources 7:35 - Finding archived industry day PDFs on SAM.gov If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding

Small business owner mindset is the foundation every federal contractor must build before strategy, certifications, or capital — and this episode goes straight to the root. In this session, Eric Coffey challenges contractors and aspiring entrepreneurs to get brutally honest about why they started their business, because when the hard moments come, your "why" is the only anchor that keeps you from walking away. Here's what this episode covers: Why your purpose matters more than your profit goal — Money is a byproduct; the contractors who last are the ones anchored to something deeper than a dollar amount How to write your "why" and stress-test it — Eric walks through a practical exercise: write it out, share it with someone you trust, let it sit, then come back and see if it still holds Why your "why" builds your team — When you hire people, you're selling them your vision; a clear purpose creates buy-in, loyalty, and a team that fights for what you're building The distractions that pull you off course — Chasing trends, seeking outside approval, and reactive pivoting are the silent killers of early-stage businesses Real stories from the community — Danny (2 months in) and Bernard (4–5 years in) share what drives them, showing this conversation matters at every stage of the journey EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Welcome to the Federal Help Center podcast intro 0:27 - Why don't you quit: the question every owner must answer 1:24 - Capital, bonding, and the reality of early business challenges 2:20 - Community shares: Why Bernard and Danny started their businesses 3:15 - How your why shapes your company vision and mission 4:11 - Distractions and pivots that derail small business owners 5:08 - Purpose over profit: what actually drives lasting success 6:07 - How to write, test, and anchor your why statement 7:00 - Why your mindset and team culture depend on your purpose 8:27 - Step-by-step process to uncover and build your why   Join the Federal Help Center community and take action. If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding

GuestScott Stevens, Founder and CEOGrays Peak Capital + Black Peak Group With Approximately $1B Of Transactions Year.Veteran portfolio manager who successfully led multi-billion-dollar portfolios at top funds including Coatue Capital, SAC Capital, and JAT Capital.Scott Stevens is the Founder and CEO of Grays Peak Capital, a New York-based global investment firm that has deployed +$300 million of private credit loans over the last 12 months using next gen data science and AI in its loan screening and investment process. He is also the Founder and CEO of Black Peak, the specialized National Security arm of the business that invests in Defense Technology, Military & Government Contracting. Grays Peak has completed over 60 venture investments into 8 unicorns and 15 exits with a specialty in technology, software and FinTech. The private equity portfolio consists of a broad range of companies with a specialty in mid-market companies with a long history of profitability. Scott has 25+ years of global investment experience across venture capital, private equity, private credit, real estate and M&A. Prior to founding Grays Peak in 2014 and Black Peak in 2024, he held key positions at some of the leading asset managers and hedge funds. He began his career at Coatue Capital, a technology-focused fund founded by Tiger Cub Philippe Laffont, where he was one of the early investment professionals. Scott went on to hold senior investment roles at Ivory Capital, Strata Capital (Head of Research), and SAC Capital Advisors (now Point72), where he managed a $250 million TMT portfolio, before ultimately serving as a Managing Director at JAT Capital, overseeing a $1 billion long/short equity portfolio in the technology, media, and telecom (TMT) sectors.Before joining the buy-side, Scott worked at Merrill Lynch & Co. in the Mergers & Acquisitions Group, completing more than $20 billion in transactions across aerospace/defense, media, healthcare, and energy, and also served as an Analyst for the Taurus Fund, a private equity fund focused on early- to mid-stage telecommunications investments.He earned a B.A. in Economics from the University of Michigan.About Grays Peak Capital + Black Peak Grays Peak Capital is a global investment firm that has invested $300 million in the past year alone in companies focused on the public market, private equity, real estate, and credit. With a strategic emphasis on data science and analytics, the firm deploys capital into companies that are shaping the future of their industries. The Grays Peak portfolio includes multinational brands that have created value by disrupting industries and embracing technology led innovation. Black Peak is a specialized platform that focuses on National Security, DefenseTech and Government Contracting. For more information, please visithttps://grayspeakcapital.com and https://blackpeakgrp.com/.

OMB memo M‑26‑10 revisits familiar themes around CIO authority and IT governance, but with sharper expectations for transparency, reporting, and shared responsibility. The question now is what agencies are expected to do differently and how this guidance changes day‑to‑day decision‑making for federal IT leaders. Here to walk us through the key points of the memo is former GSA Administrator and Senior Fellow at George Mason University's Baroni Center for Government Contracting, Emily Murphy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Government contracting skills are the foundation of every federal award — and you probably already have more than you think. In this episode of the Federal Help Center Podcast, host Eric Coffey breaks down how small business owners can identify the skills they already possess, build real expertise around them, and position that expertise to win government contracts at every level — from local agency awards to major vehicles like GSA OASIS+. What you'll learn in this episode:

Breaking into government contracting isn't just about paperwork — it's about building a business that can survive the long game. In this episode, Eric Coffie walks you through the exact mindset and practical steps to start and grow a federal contracting business from scratch. You'll learn: • Why most small businesses approach primes and agencies the wrong way — and what actually gets you in the door • How to identify agency pain points and position yourself as the solution (not just another vendor asking for a chance) • Which certifications matter most in 2024, including CMMC for DOD work • The subcontracting strategy that builds relationships AND generates revenue while you wait for a prime award • How to use fractional support to access senior-level expertise without full-time hiring costs • SBA funding, contract vehicle strategies, and how to find adjacencies on existing contracts • Why your network is your net worth — and how to turn connections into real relationships   Whether you're new to govcon, working toward your 8(a) or WOSB certification, or trying to scale past your first contract, this episode gives you a strategic framework — not just motivation. 

Shak McCants, the newly appointed 2027 Voyagers Chair and CEO of MacMore. Shak shares her inspiring journey from a part-time office manager to CEO, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, hard work, and a commitment to people. She discusses her vision for the Voyagers program, her career growth, and valuable insights into building lasting government and industry relationships. Shak's candid perspective on maintaining company culture, flexible leadership, and creating job opportunities makes for an enlightening discussion perfect for anyone navigating the GovCon space. As she prepares to lead the new Voyagers class, Shak aims to instill the qualities of being a flexible change agent in upcoming leaders.gAp Pulse: Trends. Talks. Takeaways | ACT-IAC Become a Member | ACT-IAC Small Business Alliance | ACT-IACSubscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.Learn more about membership at https://www.actiac.org/join.Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate. Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria TellsCourtesy of Epidemic Sound(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young CommunityCourtesy of Epidemic Sound)

In this episode, we cover three profitable government contracting paths for veterans. Each path has its benefits and drawbacks. We'll deep dive on each method so you can decide which path works for you Not a veteran? That's okay. Although people with military experience are uniquely qualified for certain government contracting paths, we have people of all ages and professions that get into this through the GovClose training program. Start your career or business in Government Contracting: https://www.govclose.com/govclose-certification-program

Most entrepreneurs think growth is about adding people. Add a partner. Add an employee. Add a tool. But if 1+1 equals 2, you did not create leverage. You created maintenance. In this episode, Michael explains why real growth requires multiplication, not addition. He breaks down how to evaluate business partners, employees, and romantic partners through the lens of exponential return. Then he introduces the MULTIPLY framework, a practical filter for identifying who truly accelerates your momentum and who simply occupies space. If you feel like you are working harder but not moving faster, this episode will challenge how you choose the people around you. Exponential growth is intentional. Multipliers are selected. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

Show Notes: Erin-Michael Gill, founder of Genaesis, shares his upbringing in Middletown, Maryland, and his education at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, where he studied astronomy and physics. He describes working at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office while pursuing graduate studies at Johns Hopkins University in applied physics, and later earning an MBA from MIT. Erin-Michael explains how his early exposure to patentability analysis shaped his view that intellectual property strategy often matters as much as the underlying technology. Working as a Patent Examiner Erin-Michael discusses his role as a patent examiner at the USPTO, evaluating applications for novelty and non-obviousness. He describes how examiners assess claims against prior art and why learning to identify the "one sentence" value proposition behind an invention became a durable skill for building and valuing companies. Intellectual Property Strategy at DuPont Erin-Michael describes moving from the USPTO into IP strategy at DuPont (Kevlar/Nomex), where he helped inventors protect and position new technologies. He recounts identifying a promising commercialization path for a new material, writing a business case, and being given the opportunity to help lead the effort to market. Improving PTO Operations Erin-Michael shares his experience advising during the Obama administration transition, contributing ideas to improve USPTO operations and reduce processing delays by addressing internal bottlenecks, incentives, and tools. Patent Portfolio Analysis and the "Patent Wars" Erin-Michael discusses later work analyzing patent portfolios and helping investors understand the strategic value of IP, including the dynamics behind major technology litigation that followed the rise of social platforms and smartphones. Founding Genaesis: GovCon M&A Erin-Michael explains how he entered the world of federal government contracting (GovCon) and why small-business set-aside programs create unique deal dynamics. He describes founding Genaesis to advise buyers and sellers of GovCon firms, with a focus on valuation, deal structuring, and growth through acquisition. Advising on Trade Agreements and IP Erin-Michael discusses his service on an industry advisory committee focused on intellectual property in trade, advising on complex trade issues across multiple administrations and highlighting why predictability and stability matter for investment and innovation.   Timestamps: 01:53: Role at the Patent Office 04:52: Transition to IP Strategy 09:36: Involvement in the Obama Administration 12:06: Career in IP and Government Contracting 21:09: Founding Genaesis and Government Contracting 44:03: Service on Federal Advisory Boards 48:46: Impact of Trade Agreements on IP   Links: Website: www.Genaesis.com Website Bio: https://www.genaesis.com/erin-michael    This episode on Umbrex: https://umbrex.com/unleashed/episode-637-erin-michael-gill-founder-of-genaesis-on-govcon-ma/ Unleashed is produced by Umbrex, which has a mission of connecting independent management consultants with one another, creating opportunities for members to meet, build relationships, and share lessons learned. Learn more at www.umbrex.com. *AI generated timestamps and show notes.  

Most businesses don't have a marketing problem. They have a clarity problem. In this episode, I sit down with Tori Humphreys of Cumberland Marketing to talk about why so many companies struggle to explain what makes them different. We dive into why logos aren't brands, why “on time and under budget” isn't differentiation, and why it feels illegal to pause long enough to get clear. If you've ever thrown money at a new website, business card, or ad campaign hoping it would fix your growth… this conversation will hit home. Clarity drives confidence. Confidence drives messaging. Messaging drives revenue. Let's talk about how to slow down long enough to get it right. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

“Got a minute?” Those three words are quietly draining your business. In this episode, I break down why five minute meetings are the most expensive thing on your calendar. They fragment your focus, destroy strategic thinking, and send you into what I call the productivity death spiral. You'll learn how context switching kills performance, how interruptions secretly cost you revenue, and how to retrain your team to respect structure without becoming the “unapproachable” leader. If you want deeper work, higher quality decisions, and more revenue without working longer hours, this one is mandatory. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

What if building your business in a small town is actually an advantage? In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Mullins, co-founder of Personality Pool, to talk about what startup life really looks like outside of big cities and venture-capital hype. We unpack the real pros and cons of building a company in a smaller community, from cost of living and mental health to networking challenges and unexpected opportunities. Lauren also shares how her own hiring struggles inspired Personality Pool, a video-based screening platform designed to help businesses hire for culture and personality, not just resumes. If you've ever wondered whether you need to move to a big city to grow your business, or how to build something meaningful exactly where you are, this episode will challenge a lot of assumptions. This one's honest, practical, and refreshingly real. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here:

What do you do when everyone around you tells you your idea is ridiculous? In this episode, Michael LeJeune shares a hilarious but powerful story from a recent small business conference that sparked the unexpected creation of “Cups and Chaos,” a fictional drive-through coffee shop featuring baby raccoons. What started as a joke quickly turned into a lesson about vision, courage, and why most people abandon their dreams far too early. Michael breaks down why big ideas almost always sound crazy at first, why employees and institutions resist risk, and how momentum and belief can transform ridicule into opportunity. If you've ever let doubt, fear, or other people's opinions stop you from pursuing something meaningful, this episode is a reminder that every dream deserves a fair fight. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

Technical SMEs are critical to winning government contracts, yet many dread proposal work. In this episode, Michael LeJeune sits down with Dawn Ward, former technical lead on $100M contracts and founder of Trusted Insight, to unpack why engineers resist proposals and how leaders can change that. You'll learn how poor onboarding, unclear expectations, and lack of feedback create frustration, and what to do instead. Dawn shares real-world stories, practical frameworks, and leadership strategies to turn proposal participation into an engaging, high-impact experience for technical teams. If you want better proposals, stronger collaboration, and higher win rates without burning out your best people, this conversation is a must-listen. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

Send us a textIn this episode of FedBiz'5, we unpack the SBA's 2025 Annual Report and translate it into what really matters for small business government contractors heading into 2026. We break down the report into clear signals: record access to capital, a serious push on program integrity and fraud enforcement, shifting contracting priorities (including veterans and manufacturing), innovation funding momentum, and growing demand in disaster response and resilience.You'll hear how these trends can affect your pipeline, pricing strategy, certifications, and growth plans over the next 12–18 months. We'll talk about what increased oversight means for legitimate firms, how to align with “Made in America” and onshoring narratives, why SBIR/SBIC data points to more tech-to-contract pathways, and how to get your documentation and positioning ready before agencies start moving faster in 2026. If you want to turn SBA policy signals into real competitive advantage instead of background noise, this episode is for you.Visit us: FedBizAccess.com Stay Connected: Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on LinkedIn Need help in the government marketplace? Call a FedBiz Specialist today: 844-628-8914 Or, schedule a complimentary consultation at your convenience.

Adrian Gobea is the co-founder of Federal Filing, a service that helps large and small businesses with SAM Registration, SBA Certifications, and managing annual renewals.In this episode, we'll explore Adrain's beginnings in the Government Contracting space, the unique vehicle that he operates in, the lessons and pitfalls he's encountered along the way, and actionable advice for business owners seeking to enter or grow in the marketplace.Follow Adrian!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/federalfiling/#YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FederalFilingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/federal-filingWebsite: https://www.federalfiling.com/Like and Subscribe for new episodes of The Construction Game Podcast

Dr. Karwanna D. Irving is a business growth coach and government contracting expert, that helps business owners scale their businesses and build generational wealth by securing government contracts.In this episode, we'll explore Dr. Karwanna's beginnings in the government contracting space, the opportunities unique to government contracting for building longterm wealth, the lessons and pitfalls she's encountered along the way, and actionable advice for business owners seeking to enter or grow in the marketplace.Follow Dr. Karwanna!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karwannadspeaks/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarwannaDLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karwannadspeaks5 Day GovCon Challenge: https://govconchallenge.com/Like and Subscribe for new episodes of The Construction Game Podcast

Melanie Patterson is the founder of Integrity Global Logistics & Team Integrity Knowledge Center, and a successful entrepreneur that helps business owners grow and scale through Government Contracting.In this episode, we'll explore Melanie's beginnings in the government contracting space, how the space has changed the lives of her family and team members, the lessons and pitfalls she's encountered along the way, and actionable advice for business owners seeking to enter or grow in the marketplace.Follow Melanie!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniepatterson_ceoYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelaniePatterson_CEOLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-patterson/Website: https://www.integritytransitcorp.com/Like and Subscribe for new episodes of The Construction Game Podcast

Public speaking isn't just for keynote stages, it's a foundational life skill. In this episode, Michael LeJeune breaks down practical, real-world strategies to become a more confident and effective speaker, whether you're presenting on stage, leading a meeting, selling, or simply communicating ideas clearly. You'll learn how to own the room before you say a word, why stories outperform data, how to trim your message so it lands, and how to use your voice as an instrument instead of a monotone delivery system. Michael also explains how to structure talks around heroes and villains, why slides should be on a strict diet, and how to practice in a way that builds lasting confidence. If you want to stand out in business and in life, this episode gives you tools you can use immediately. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

The SBA, Pentagon, and Treasury are running simultaneous audits of the 8(a) program, each targeting different risks but all aimed at restoring integrity to a system the administration says has been widely misused. The scale of the oversight is something the contracting community hasn't seen before. We'll explore what ties these reviews together and what contractors might expect with Emily Murphy, senior Fellow at the George Mason University Baroni Center for Government Contracting and a Former GSA Administrator.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we have Mike Derrios with us, the new Executive Director of the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting within the Costello College of Business at George Mason University. Mike discusses with us the concept to create a common culture within GovCon across Government, Industry and Academia and the benefits associated.  To connect with Mike, find him on LinkedIn.  Learn more about the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting

Send us a textIn this episode of FedBiz'5, we tackle a silent deal-killer in government contracting: being invisible to buyers online. Contracting officers and primes may start their search in SAM.gov and SBA's Small Business Search, but they increasingly validate vendors through LinkedIn and AI-powered research tools long before they return an email or agree to a capability briefing.You'll learn why your LinkedIn profile is now part of your competitive position, the most common visibility mistakes contractors make, and practical ways to fix them — from rewriting your headline and About section for government buyers, to showcasing proof in your Experience and Featured sections, to maintaining just enough posting activity to look current and credible. If you're a capable small business that feels overlooked, this episode shows you how to turn LinkedIn into an asset instead of a liability and start showing up the way serious vendors should.Visit us: FedBizAccess.com Stay Connected: Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on LinkedIn Need help in the government marketplace? Call a FedBiz Specialist today: 844-628-8914 Or, schedule a complimentary consultation at your convenience.

The DoD Mentor-Protégé Program is one of the most powerful and misunderstood growth tools in government contracting. In this episode, Michael LeJeune sits down with Lisa Mays and Victoria Tripiano from the Catalyst Center to break down how the DoD Mentor-Protégé Program actually works, how it differs from the SBA version, and why it's not the right fit for early-stage companies. They explain where the funding really goes, what makes a strong protégé, why mentors participate, and the role authorized subcontractors play in delivering real value. You'll also hear real success stories, common misconceptions, and practical advice for companies considering the program. If you've ever wondered whether the DoD Mentor-Protégé Program is worth pursuing, this episode will give you clarity before you invest the time and effort. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

Most people think they're failing at their goals because of discipline, strategy, or time. That's rarely the truth. In this episode, Michael LeJeune breaks down the real reason high performers still miss their biggest goals: they haven't assigned enough value to them. Drawing from personal experience, psychology, and real-world examples, Michael explains why vague goals don't demand action, how comfort quietly sabotages progress, and why every meaningful goal requires sacrifice. You'll learn how to get painfully specific about what you want, identify what you're protecting instead of pursuing, create daily non-negotiables, and design your environment so the right behaviors become automatic. If you've ever wondered why certain goals stay stuck on your list year after year, this episode will help you finally understand why, and what to do about it. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

Send us a textIn this episode of FedBiz'5, we break down the late-2025 signals that are already reshaping government contracting in 2026 – and what they really mean for small and mid-sized businesses. From the ongoing FAR overhaul and tightening cybersecurity expectations under CMMC, to FedRAMP 20x, GSA Schedule ordering trends, evolving SBA certification processes, and a more dynamic SAM.gov, the rules of the game aren't changing overnight – but the playing field definitely is.You'll learn how these six trends are showing up in real proposals, registrations, and contract vehicles, why “good enough” boilerplate and outdated profiles are becoming a liability, and how disciplined, low-friction vendors can actually turn this wave of change into an advantage.Whether you're already winning federal work or gearing up for a stronger 2026, this episode will help you focus on the operational tweaks that matter most – so you can stay compliant, stay visible, and stay competitive as the new landscape takes shape.Visit us: FedBizAccess.com Stay Connected: Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on LinkedIn Need help in the government marketplace? Call a FedBiz Specialist today: 844-628-8914 Or, schedule a complimentary consultation at your convenience.

Many federal contractors are looking to diversify into state and local markets, but most approach SLED proposals the wrong way. They approach it just like Federal proposal and that's a recipe for disaster. In this episode, Michael LeJeune sits down with proposal expert Michele Atkinson to break down the real differences between federal and state/local contracting. From vague scoring criteria and numeric scorecards to the outsized role of presentations, relationships, and local presence, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how SLED awards actually happen. You'll learn why compliance looks different, how evaluators really score proposals, why being “technically correct” isn't enough, and how local politics and community impact can quietly tip the scales. If you've been treating SLED like federal contracting and wondering why you're not winning, this episode will change how you think about proposals entirely. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

Meet Malcolm Ali a.k.a. Mr. Purchase Order GovCon Expert, Entrepreneur, #1 best selling author, AI Alchemist and motivational speakerMalcolm "Mr. Purchase Order" Ali is a nationally certified procurement expert, government contracting strategist, and business coach who helps minority-owned businesses win government contracts and scale with confidence. As the founder of ProcureForce, Inc., Malcolm has helped entrepreneurs secure millions in public sector contracts through targeted certifications, AI-powered tools, and step-by-step coaching. Links & Resources:

Most government contractors aren't limited by the market, certifications, or competition. They're limited by an invisible cage they've built around their business. In this episode, inspired by a powerful moment from The Equalizer, Michael breaks down the mindset shift that separates reactive contractors from strategic builders. You'll learn the four “worlds” most contractors operate in, why chasing bids is not a business model, and how scarcity thinking quietly forces you into bad work and thin margins. If you've ever said “that won't work in government contracting,” this episode will challenge you to rethink what's possible and show you how to intentionally design your pipeline, positioning, and growth strategy. If nothing changes, nothing changes. It's time to change your world. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start? Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

In this episode of the Federal Help Center Podcast, Randie Ward walks newer contractors through the unsexy but critical research process most small businesses skip—how to identify the real decision makers behind a federal requirement. From tracking solicitation numbers and awards in SAM.gov to using LinkedIn, forecast lists, and small business offices, Randie shows how winning contractors play investigator long before submitting a bid. The episode reinforces a hard truth in GovCon: if you don't know who the customer is, you're not competing—you're guessing. Key Takeaways The solicitation number is your fastest path back to the real requirement Small business offices can open doors—if you show you've done your homework Finding the end user beats chasing the contracting officer every time If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/  Connect with Encore Funding: https://www.encore-funding.com/ 

If you think rebranding means “new logo, new website, done”… this episode will convince you otherwise. Michael sits down with Erica Dobbs, CEO of Dobson Solutions, to break down why a company with a strong reputation chose to rebrand and why timing matters when your business matures. Erica shares how her team shifted from speaking pure DoD language to building a more universal message that attracts commercial clients, without demolishing what they already built. They cover the research process, how long a real rebrand takes, why internal ownership beats outsourcing sometimes, and the three-part narrative they built to anchor the new brand: Think Partnership, Think Performance, Think Power. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

In this episode of the Federal Help Center Podcast, we have Ryan Atencio, a former Army Special Operations veteran turned government contracting insider, to break down how federal contracts actually get created, evaluated, and awarded. Drawing from years spent as the end user, COR, and technical evaluator, Ryan pulls back the curtain on why supplies move faster than services, why construction is the most dangerous lane for small businesses, and how contractors can win by understanding how customers think—not how solicitations are written. Key Takeaways Supplies are the fastest, lowest-friction path to federal revenue Professional services offer scale without construction risk You don't need product expertise—just access to the customer If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/  Website: https://govcongiants.org/  Connect with Encore Funding: https://www.encore-funding.com/ 

In this episode, Michael calls out a growing problem in the government contracting space, too many people are whining about FAR changes, small business rules, and politics, and not enough people are focused on winning. He breaks down why winners do not obsess over whether the rules are fair, they simply ask, “What is the new play, coach” and adapt. You will hear why your only real job is to understand the rules, build a sound strategy, and execute while everyone else is distracted and complaining online. Michael also explains how fear of the unknown, attachment to the old way, and believing that change is a disadvantage are quietly killing otherwise good companies. If you want to win more contracts in any administration, this episode is your wake up call. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaillejeune/govconstrategysession

Over 400 episodes and a decade in, we step back and ask a big question: how has government contracting really changed, and what is coming next? In this special fireside chat, Michael LeJeune, Joshua Frank, Rich Earnest, and Tom Prokop break down the shifts that matter. We talk about rising simplified acquisition and micro-purchase thresholds, the VA and contract vehicle strategies, market maturity, and how private equity and M&A have reshaped the competitive landscape. We also dig into data driven BD with SAM.gov's Data Bank and USAspending, the higher barrier to entry for new GovCon's, and why AI is a powerful tool, not a magic proposal button. Finally, the team shares blunt advice on who should start a government contracting business, how to prepare financially, and what it will take to win over the next ten years. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

In this live episode from the Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum, Small Biz Florida host Tom Kindred sits down with Waymon Armstrong, founder and CEO of Engineering and Computer Simulations (ECS), a pioneer in using video game technology for military training. Armstrong shares his entrepreneurial journey, including how he left Lockheed Martin to start ECS nearly three decades ago, his early wins with SBIR grants, and how he grew his company into a global provider of modeling and simulation solutions for the Department of Defense. He discusses why Orlando is a hub for simulation and training, how government contracting became his primary growth engine, and the importance of Florida's SBDC and entrepreneurial ecosystem in helping ECS thrive. From training combat medics to advising small businesses to follow the money in federal contracting, Armstrong delivers powerful insights and inspiration. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum hosted at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: https://www.ecsorl.com

Andy Main is a former UFC fighter, the youngest person to appear on The Ultimate Fighter -at the time, an MMA champion, a serial entrepreneur, and the CEO of ROE Defense. Rick talks to Andy about why he started a defense tech company, his amazing career in mixed martial arts, and his philosophy on business and life. Andy's a member of the GovClose certification program. If you'd like to check that out, you can do so at the following link: https://www.govclose.comWatch Next:The 15 Rules of Government Contracting. https://youtu.be/gdh8dNBT46MConnect with Rick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/govclose/Connect With Andy on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymain1/#ufc #mma #veteran #defensetechnology

In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, Michael LeJeune speaks with Alexa Tsui about the industry shift from traditional business development and capture toward disciplined go-to-market (GTM) strategies. Alexa explains why top tech entrants (Palantir, OpenAI, etc.) hire “go-to-market” leaders, not old-school BD roles, and why GovCon companies must stop piling up tools and start building a repeatable story, capability portfolio, and process. Learn the essentials: define what you sell, clarify your “why,” craft case-study-driven stories, use LinkedIn strategically, and prioritize painkillers over vitamins. If you want a focused pipeline, clearer decisions, and faster scale, this episode shows where to start. ----- Frustrated with your government contracting journey? Join our group coaching community here: federal-access.com/gamechangers Grab my #1 bestselling book, "I'm New to Government Contracting. Where Should I Start?" Here: https://amzn.to/4hHLPeE Book a call with me here: https://calendly.com/michaellejeune/govconstrategysession

In this episode, Eric Coffie delivers a hard truth: government contracting has always been a relationship business—and the only reason most small businesses are missing out is because they're not showing up. Eric breaks down how power players build connections with decision-makers, why networking is non-negotiable, and how intentional events—not random parties—create million-dollar opportunities. He challenges listeners to stop doubting and start doing, because every contract starts with a conversation. Key Takeaways: Relationships drive results—your network is your pipeline. Show up where decisions are made; proximity creates opportunity. Doubt doesn't pay—action and visibility do. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing