Fed Gov Today

Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel says agencies should resist the urge to race toward artificial intelligence productivity gains without first understanding the risks. Werfel, now Executive in Residence at the Johns Hopkins School of Government and Policy, explains why tax may be especially well suited for AI and why that potential makes responsible adoption even more important. He discusses risk registers, hallucinations, autonomous AI behavior and the need for domain-specific frameworks. His three-word advice for organizations deploying AI: “slow your roll.” Werfel argues agencies can capture meaningful efficiency gains while gradually learning how to manage risk, train employees and protect the public.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Space Force wants to make greater use of commercial space data, but challenges around awareness, access and acquisition are slowing adoption. Jon Ludwigson, Director of Contracting and National Security Acquisitions at the Government Accountability Office, explains how the Joint Commercial Operations Cell is building a commercial data ecosystem for the military. Ludwigson discusses why commercial capabilities can reduce pressure on expensive government systems, make information easier to share with partners and give the Pentagon more “eyes” on space. He also explains why GAO believes greater awareness of an existing Space Force working group could help overcome barriers to commercial data adoption.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Thrift Savings Plan is rolling out new digital tools designed to make managing retirement accounts easier for participants and their families. TSP Director of External Affairs Jim Kaplan discusses the new Life Events Hub, which allows beneficiaries to report a participant’s death, upload documentation and track the transfer process online. He also outlines upcoming improvements to digital payments, phishing-resistant multifactor authentication and installment payments. Kaplan explains how TSP evaluates new capabilities based on participant demand and return on investment. He also shares early results from Roth in-plan conversions, which have moved more than $1 billion since launching this year.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

Former Defense Threat Reduction Agency program manager Steve Hoffman joins Fed Gov Today to discuss how the Pentagon can turn emerging technologies into operational capabilities faster. Hoffman explains why quantum technology could reshape sensors, computing and warfare, and why government, industry and academia need to collaborate before breakthroughs arrive. He explores the balance between warfighter demand and technology push, the importance of rapid experimentation and early user feedback, and lessons from Ukraine’s adoption of new capabilities. Hoffman also examines acquisition reform, the defense industrial base and the challenge smaller companies face securing capital, scaling production and crossing the “valley of death.”Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Pentagon is changing how it buys technology, and former Pentagon Deputy CIO Danielle Metz says the shift could deliver major benefits for both warfighters and taxpayers. Metz joins Fed Gov Today to break down the Defense Department’s new IT category management strategy, including its $7 billion enterprise software agreement with Oracle. She explains why centralized buying can reduce costs, improve access to technology and create more predictable acquisition processes. Metz also discusses the challenge of moving individual DoD organizations onto enterprise contracts, the importance of strong governance and leadership, and how this strategy could shape the next iteration of JWCC.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

One of the leaders behind the FAR overhaul is leaving government. Former OFPP Administrator Joe Jordan joins Fed Gov Today to examine what Kevin Rhodes’ departure could mean for the future of federal acquisition reform and why institutionalizing changes will be critical to maintaining momentum. Jordan discusses the importance of finding a successor who can continue the overhaul, the unconventional approach helping reforms move quickly, and the role agencies across government play in the effort. He also raises concerns about proposed SBA size standards that could dramatically expand which companies qualify as small businesses for federal contracting opportunities.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Thrift Savings Plan is making retirement saving easier for federal employees while strengthening oversight and controlling costs. Jim Kaplan, Director of External Affairs at the TSP, explains how the agency is automating Roth catch-up contributions required under SECURE 2.0. He also discusses a 14% increase in rollovers into the TSP, record assets in several funds, and growing adoption of lifecycle funds. Kaplan details improvements following the recordkeeping system transition, including fewer audit recommendations and the closure of all recommendations from a GAO review. He also explains why coming in under budget directly benefits TSP participants and beneficiaries.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Department of Veterans Affairs is modernizing how it serves veterans and their families by adopting technology developed at Arlington National Cemetery. Renea Yates, Director of the Office of Army Cemeteries, and Mike Bowers, Acting Deputy Under Secretary for VA's National Cemetery Administration, explain how years of collaboration are helping replace fragmented legacy systems with a unified digital platform. They discuss the importance of adapting business processes instead of customizing software, using geospatial technology to improve burial accountability, and managing organizational change. The conversation also explores how shared innovation is improving the customer experience while creating a roadmap for future modernization across government.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

FedRAMP 20x promises to make federal cloud security authorizations faster, more transparent, and more reusable—but are agencies and industry ready for the transition? On this episode of Fed Gov Today, former Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Julie Dunne examines the opportunities and challenges surrounding the next generation of FedRAMP. She discusses why automation and continuous security monitoring are reshaping the authorization process, where agencies remain hesitant to embrace change, and how differing approaches across civilian agencies and the Department of Defense could complicate adoption. Dunne also explains why congressional reauthorization and stronger government-wide coordination will be critical to FedRAMP's future.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The U.S. Army is redefining battlefield autonomy with the Multiple Simultaneous Engagement Technologies (MSET) program, giving a single operator the ability to launch and manage multiple missiles against multiple targets at once. In this episode, Lt. Col. Jim Lawson and Dr. Shane Thompson explain how the team prioritized simplicity, reduced operator workload, and integrated cutting-edge autonomy into a familiar interface for soldiers. They also discuss the successful transition from science and technology to a program of record—avoiding the Pentagon's notorious "Valley of Death"—and share lessons on collaboration, rapid acquisition, and delivering technology that warfighters will actually use

The Office of Personnel Management is ending its centralized Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS), shifting responsibility to individual agencies. Former OPM HR Quality Services Management Office Director Steve Krauss explains why this change could become a major opportunity—or a significant challenge—for federal organizations. He discusses how agencies can collect more timely, actionable workforce data, the importance of building strong data analytics capabilities, and why communities of practice remain essential across government. Krauss also explores how employee feedback fits into OPM's broader vision for a government-wide workforce data ecosystem that supports skills-based talent management and smarter human capital decisions. Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

In this episode of Fed Gov Today, Ted Lemieux, Head of the Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering Branch at the Naval Research Laboratory, explains how the Insertable Stalk Inspection System 360 is replacing dangerous, time-consuming tank inspections with immersive 360-degree imaging and advanced analytics. He discusses how the technology helps maintenance planners identify corrosion before ships enter dry dock, reducing unnecessary work, avoiding costly surprises, and improving fleet readiness. Lemieux also shares how commercial innovation and emerging AI capabilities are shaping the next generation of naval inspections.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

GAO Director of Information Technology and Cybersecurity Dave Hinchman explains why continuous monitoring, strong service level agreements, and clear agency oversight remain essential as cloud adoption accelerates. He discusses lessons from GAO's review of cloud deployments at four federal agencies, what those findings mean for government-wide cybersecurity, and how the evolving FedRAMP program places greater responsibility on agencies to evaluate cloud providers. Hinchman also shares practical steps agencies can take to strengthen cloud security and better protect taxpayer data. Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

In conversation with SAP Industry Executive Advisor Travis Hoadley, this episode explores how federal agencies can modernize human capital management to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. Hoadley examines the growing gap between public- and private-sector talent management, the critical role of technology modernization, and the importance of strong collaboration between IT and HR leaders. He also discusses how artificial intelligence is reshaping federal jobs, why workforce planning must evolve beyond outdated frameworks, and how agencies can create a persistent culture of innovation. The conversation highlights the strategies that will separate future-ready agencies from those struggling to keep pace in the decade ahead.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Army’s new Joint Innovation Outpost is changing how military capability gets from industry to the battlefield. Colonel Tom Monaghan explains how the JIOP embeds acquisition professionals directly with the 18th Airborne Corps to rapidly test, refine, and scale new technologies based on real-time soldier feedback. From anti-drone systems to modular drone transport cases designed by soldiers themselves, the initiative is streamlining the “last mile” of military innovation. Monaghan details how the Army is cutting through traditional procurement timelines, partnering directly with industry, and creating a model that could expand to every corps headquarters across the service.

VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Sam Brown joins the program to discuss how the National Cemetery Administration is transforming the veteran and family experience through modernization, outreach, and collaboration. Brown explains why customer experience is central to NCA’s mission, the surprising reality that only 18% of eligible veterans choose national cemeteries, and how the VA is working to increase awareness of burial benefits. He also reveals a major modernization effort with Arlington National Cemetery to replace decades-old systems with a shared platform designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and better serve veterans and their families for generations to come.

Former DISA Director Lt. Gen. Bob Skinner joins Fed Gov Today to explain why digital forensics is no longer just a post-breach investigative tool—it’s now the frontline of cyber defense. Skinner breaks down how AI-powered platforms like Mythos are changing the cybersecurity landscape, why the line between criminals and nation-state adversaries is disappearing, and what agencies must do to stay ahead of increasingly complex threats. He also shares why the federal government needs more “operational technologists” who understand both mission and technology, and why critical thinking—not just technical skill—will define the next generation of cyber talent

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The General Services Administration is launching a major restructuring of the Federal Acquisition Service, consolidating acquisition programs into five new portfolios designed to modernize procurement and improve efficiency across government. Former FAS Deputy Commissioner Tom Howder joins Fed Gov Today to explain why GSA is moving from an industry-based model to a product-based approach, what it means for Multiple Award Schedules, GWACs, and assisted acquisition services, and how artificial intelligence and automation fit into the agency’s future. Howder also discusses the uncertain future of TTS, why communication is critical during large reorganizations, and how agencies and vendors could be impacted. 

Jim Kaplan, Director of External Affairs at the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, explains how the Thrift Savings Plan is modernizing the rollover experience for federal employees and service members. Kaplan discusses the TSP’s concierge service, which helps participants transfer retirement savings from private-sector accounts into the TSP with personalized support throughout the process. He also shares how the agency is improving participant experience through technology upgrades, strengthening cybersecurity protections, encouraging secure direct deposit setup, and helping younger federal employees take advantage of Roth retirement options. The conversation highlights the TSP’s focus on security, customer service, and making retirement planning simpler and more accessible for participants at every stage of their careers.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

DC3 CIO Eric Oliver says the Pentagon Cyber Crime Center is in a race to modernize before AI-driven threats outpace traditional defenses. In this episode of Fed Gov Today, Oliver explains how DC3 is transforming aging infrastructure, moving sensitive operations to the cloud, and implementing zero trust security while supporting cyber investigations, counterintelligence, and the defense industrial base. He also discusses how emerging AI tools could dramatically accelerate vulnerability discovery and why autonomous AI systems will create entirely new investigative challenges. Oliver warns DC3 must stay ahead of evolving threats because the organization itself is a prime target for foreign intelligence services.

Project Maven’s evolution into a full program of record marks a turning point for AI in defense. Former JAIC Director Jack Shanahan and former NGA Director Trey Whitworth break down how Maven Smart System is shifting from an experimental capability to a globally deployed decision-support engine. With stable funding, expanding integration, and potential ties to Joint All-Domain Command and Control, Maven is redefining how commanders reduce complexity and act faster. The conversation explores human-machine collaboration, the rise of AI-driven reasoning, and the future of military decision-making—where agility, accountability, and smarter insights could reshape operations across the battlefieldSubscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

Former CIA case officer Tom Mulligan breaks down why artificial intelligence isn’t replacing human intelligence—but transforming it. From AI “co-workers” assisting analysts to the growing threat of AI-generated deception, Mulligan outlines five critical lessons for the intelligence community. He explains how AI is supercharging surveillance, reshaping tradecraft, and enhancing persuasion, while also making human judgment more valuable than ever. Despite rapid technological advances, Mulligan argues HUMINT remains essential—and may become even more important as AI spreads globally. The future of intelligence isn’t man vs. machine—it’s how humans and AI work together to outthink adversaries.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

SAP executive advisors Tahera Zamanzada and Brian Laird explore how federal agencies are shifting from legacy, siloed systems to AI-enabled, standards-based architectures. They discuss reducing technical debt, improving interoperability, and leveraging shared services to scale best practices across government. Rather than “big bang” overhauls, they emphasize incremental pilots, high-value use cases, and progress over perfection—especially when integrating AI with imperfect data. The conversation also highlights cultural challenges, workforce readiness, and the growing demand for modern tools. Ultimately, success lies in aligning technology with mission outcomes, fostering collaboration, and building adaptable, data-driven foundations for the future.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

Bill Greenwalt argues the Pentagon’s biggest obstacle isn’t technology—it’s budget rigidity. While civilian agencies enjoy flexible funding, DoD remains stuck in a decades-old PPBE system that limits speed and innovation. Greenwalt explains how Congress must decide whether to modernize or scrap the system entirely, and why new acquisition models like portfolio-based investing can’t succeed without financial agility. The conversation highlights how outdated rules hinder competition with global adversaries and explores real-world examples of flexibility across government. Ultimately, meaningful reform depends on congressional will—and a shift in how defense funding is managed.

The federal government has spent over a decade trying to reduce its massive, underused real estate footprint—but progress has been slow and costly. In this episode, GAO’s Dave Marroni breaks down why disposing of excess federal property remains such a persistent challenge, from funding hurdles to data gaps and lengthy timelines. He explains how new legislation and GSA’s more proactive approach—including private-sector brokers—could accelerate change and save billions in maintenance costs. The key? Better data, clearer performance goals, and smarter strategy. This conversation reveals why managing federal property isn’t just about buildings—it’s about accountability, efficiency, and mission success. 

This episode of Fed Gov Today explores a major OMB memo reshaping how federal CIOs manage IT contracts and spending. Former USDA CIO Gary Washington explains how the guidance reinforces CIO authority, improves transparency, and pushes agencies toward enterprise thinking. The policy requires detailed reporting of contracts, pricing, and approvals, aiming to eliminate silos and standardize procurement data. While challenges remain around compliance and enforcement, the memo signals stronger oversight, better pricing leverage, and a cultural shift toward treating IT as a strategic mission driver across government agencies today. Ultimately it highlights the ongoing evolution of federal technology leadership priorities.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The Space Force is scaling faster than ever, and Vandenberg Space Force Base is at the center of it all. Colonel James Horne explains how a surge to 70+ launches annually is driven by commercial partnerships, reduced launch costs, and a “second space race” mindset. He breaks down the shift to service-based acquisition, the rise of dual-use innovation, and how automation and AI are transforming operations. From infrastructure overhauls to workforce expansion, the Spaceport of the Future vision is redefining national security space strategy and accelerating America’s ability to compete—and win—in orbit.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Thrift Savings Plan is hitting record-breaking milestones, from soaring participation rates to lightning-fast 11-second call response times. Jim Kaplan explains how default enrollment, financial literacy, and a relentless focus on customer service are reshaping retirement outcomes for federal employees and service members. The conversation dives into how managed services transformed support operations, why cybersecurity remains a top priority, and how AI is quietly boosting efficiency behind the scenes. With participation in the Blended Retirement System surpassing expectations, TSP’s success highlights a broader cultural shift toward proactive financial planning and continuous improvement across government programs.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

Outgoing DHS CISO Hemant Baidwan reflects on the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the urgent shift from compliance-driven security to real-time risk reduction. He highlights how AI is transforming both defense and adversary tactics, making continuous monitoring and automation essential. Baidwan introduces the concept of a Risk Operations Center (ROC), emphasizing visibility, attack path analysis, and actionable intelligence to “burn down” cyber risk to acceptable levels. He also discusses the future of self-healing infrastructure and the cultural changes required across government. The conversation underscores a pivotal moment for federal cybersecurity strategy and innovation.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

In this episode of Fed Gov Today, former Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Alan Thomas breaks down sweeping proposed changes to GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule, including expanded transactional data reporting and a controversial new AI clause. Thomas explains how broader TDR requirements could add complexity for vendors—especially for services and configurable products—while raising questions about how the government will use the data. He also warns the AI provision, now delayed for further review, could unintentionally stifle innovation and deter new entrants. With industry feedback mounting, the discussion highlights the delicate balance between oversight, modernization, and maintaining a competitive, innovation-friendly federal marketplace.

This episode of Fed Gov Today features Francis Rose in conversation with federal data expert Kshemendra Paul on why data—not AI—is the real foundation of innovation. They explore how poor data governance fuels AI risks like bias and hallucinations, and how agencies can unlock high-fidelity AI by improving data quality, sharing, and standards. From the President’s Management Agenda to real-world interoperability challenges, Paul explains why shifting from agency silos to ecosystem-driven governance is critical. The discussion highlights how aligning CIOs, CDOs, and data strategies can drive smarter, more efficient government services in the AI era.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The State Department’s massive $10 billion Evolve contract is finally live—marking a milestone in federal acquisition. Former Senior Procurement Executive Mike Derrios breaks down the strategy behind bringing contract management in-house, the challenges of handling over 100 proposals, and why perseverance was key to success. He explores whether Evolve could be the last of its kind amid growing pressure for contract consolidation and GSA-led solutions. Plus, insights on the sweeping FAR overhaul and the cultural shift agencies must embrace to truly modernize procurement. This episode unpacks what it takes to transform government contracting at scale—and what comes next.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com