GovCon Unscripted

Kodak's own engineers built the first digital camera, and its executives shelved it to protect film. The gap between having ideas and managing innovation is where organizations quietly die.In this special episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with two of the people writing the international playbook for innovation management. Rick Fernandez is President of the American Network for Innovation, chairman of the US technical advisory group to ISO TC 279, and a veteran of Florida Power & Light's Deming Prize win, the first awarded outside Japan. Harlan Bennett is CEO of Ever Evolving, Inc., VP of the American Network for Innovation, and vice chair of the same US advisory group. Together they take apart the most common misreads in federal innovation: that innovation equals technology, that more ideas mean more innovation, and that a standard is just another compliance flow-down. Rick contrasts idea-driven programs (14,000 employee ideas collected, roughly 100 developed, 13,900 contributors alienated) with value-driven innovation that starts from strategic intent. Harlan shows SBIR performers how to escape the one-lane trap by validating adjacent customers before the build starts. And both make the case that ISO 56001, built on the same harmonized structure as ISO 9001, is a management system, not a control system. They also preview what's next: innovation ecosystem management, IP-sharing contracts between primes and subs, and why innovation is no longer an individual game. TIMESTAMPS00:00 Welcome and guest introductions01:00 Harlan Bennett: Ever Evolving, Inc. and the American Network for Innovation02:30 Rick Fernandez: from FPL's Deming Prize to ISO TC 27904:00 Why innovation needs standards now: the three S's07:00 Innovation is not a technology: something new that creates value09:30 The garage tinkerer problem and the one hit wonder11:00 Managing innovation vs controlling it12:00 Idea-driven vs value-driven innovation: the 14,000 ideas story14:30 Innovation portfolio management18:45 SBIR: escaping the one-lane trap23:30 The recipe: maximize value, minimize risk, resources, and time24:45 Ambidextrous organizations: innovating without dropping daily operations25:30 Case study: an innovation management office, 100 projects narrowed to 329:00 Ecosystems: innovation is no longer an individual game31:00 Primes, flow-downs, CMMC, and fair negotiations37:45 Standards as enablers, not regulations39:30 The harmonized structure: why ISO 9001 shops are halfway there42:15 Where to find Harlan and RickResources:Harlan Bennett's LinkedIn ProfileRick Fernandez's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea Roberts' LinkedIn Profile Other resources:Ever Evolving Inc. Website2020 Innovation WebsiteAmerican Network For Innovation Website 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHy Like and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

Say the word manufacturing and a lot of people picture something old and dirty. For rural communities, Chrissy Marucci argues, it is something else entirely: jobs and the federal dollars that come with them.On this Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts continues the #RoadtoHUBZone series with Chrissy Marucci, President and CEO of Elevated Consulting & Development. Chrissy lives in an entire HUBZone county in the mountains of Appalachia and has spent years connecting rural residents to real federal contracting careers. She and Chelsea talks about what HUBZone was designed to do (bring federal spending back into the communities that need it), why the program is about the place and the people rather than the owner, how the 35% employee-residency rule actually works, and why manufacturing deserves a serious rethink as a source of rural jobs. She also lays out the community development corporation she is building to keep that money at home. 2026 National HUBZone Conference, July 21 and 22 (golf outing July 20) at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia. Timestamps00:00 Welcome and who Chrissy is01:00 Elevated Consulting and Council back-office support02:00 An entire HUBZone county in Appalachia03:00 Building the HUBZone Workforce Program05:00 What HUBZone does for rural areas06:00 Manufacturing and construction in rural HUBZones09:00 Advocacy, land use, and changing the narrative10:00 Manufacturing is not a dirty word15:30 Place-based and employee-based: the 35% rule18:00 Remote work and unlocking rural talent19:00 The community development corporation21:00 Conference mode and see you in ChantillyResources:Chrissy Marucci's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea Robert's LinkedIn ProfileElevated Consulting & Development's WebsiteOther resources:Holler to Hilltop (community development)HUBZone Contractors National Council2026 National HUBZone Conference (register) 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

A multimillion-dollar services contract, awarded in two weeks, with every I dotted and every T crossed. It was not federal, and that is exactly the point.This week on GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Jonathan Santana, founder and lead consultant of Excelsior Consulting Services, LLC, an SBA HUBZone and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned small business supporting federal, state, local, nonprofit, and commercial clients. Jonathan earned his contracting warrant in the Air Force in 2003, bought through hurricane prep at Langley Air Force Base, deployed to Balad Air Base in Iraq in 2005 as a contingency contracting officer, and later worked procurement at Miami-Dade County before founding his own firm. The conversation covers the translation problem between federal, state, and local buying (acquisition becomes procurement becomes purchasing, while the terms and conditions stay nearly one to one), how NASPO ValuePoint works as a state-level analog to a GWAC or federal supply schedule, what it means to compete with Big Four consultancies that have pivoted to state and local, creative contracting inside the FAR (performance work statements over statements of work, FAR 13.5 procedures), why state and local can award in weeks when the incentive exists, and forensic governance, Jonathan's discipline of getting adversarial with program data before leadership bets on it. Chapters:00:00 Intro and Excelsior Consulting Services00:02 The verbiage gap: federal vs state and local00:03 NASPO ValuePoint and entering state markets through a multi-contractor alliance00:07 Competing with the Big Four at the state and local level00:10 A contracting warrant at Langley: hurricane prep on the clock00:11 Deployed at Balad Air Base: contingency contracting in Iraq00:14 SF-44s, purchase cards, and buying under pressure00:19 Creative contracting inside the FAR: PWS vs SOW, FAR 13.500:23 How fast state, local, and nonprofit buying really moves00:27 What is forensic governance?00:31 AI, governance, and decision risk00:35 Where to find JonathanResources:Jonathan Santana's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea Roberts' LinkedIn ProfileOther resources:Excelsior Consulting Services' WebsiteExcelsior Consulting Services' InstagramExcelsior Consulting Services' Company LinkedIn Profile 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHy Like and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/ 

In federal contracting, most conferences give you a polished keynote you could have read in a press release. Eric Coffie goes to a lot of them, and he keeps coming back to HUBZone for a different reason.On this Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts continues the #RoadtoHUBZone series with Eric Coffie, founder and CEO of GovCon Giants.Eric attends a lot of federal contracting events, and his read on this one is blunt: most conferences are more glitter than substance, and HUBZone is where he actually gets the real deal. He and Chelsea talk about keeping perspective when set-aside programs come under scrutiny, why the value of a conference is in the room rather than the brochure, and the funding and scale panel he is hosting. The conversation lands on a simple message for anyone weighing the trip: come prepared, extract everything, and make the connections that carry the rest of your year.2026 National HUBZone Conference, July 21 and 22 (golf outing July 20) at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia. Timestamps00:00 Welcome and who Eric is01:00 Nothing new under the sun: perspective on program challenges03:00 Why HUBZone weathers the discourse08:00 Substance over glitter: what makes HUBZone different11:00 The exhibitors and primes in the room12:00 The Building for Scale funding panel16:00 Extract everything: prep and make the most of it18:00 Boots on the ground, fourth quarter, and connections18:30 Manufacturing and made in USA19:00 See you in Chantilly 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/Eric Coffie's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea Robert's Linkedin Profile2026 National HUBZone Conference (register)Other resources:Eric Coffie's YouTube AccountEric Coffie's Twitter AccountGovCon Giants' WebsiteGovCon Giant's Instagram Account

The SBA hasn't let a single new company into the 8(a) Program in over 250 days. Federal contracts attorney and educator Steven Koprince explains what that means for the program's future and for the small businesses waiting at the door.Steven Koprince spent more than 20 years as a federal government contracts attorney, founding Koprince McCall Pottroff LLC before moving into education, writing, and board service. In this conversation with Chelsea Roberts, Steven walks through the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul, the shifting culture around contracting officer discretion and bid protests, why AI-drafted GAO protests keep getting thrown out for hallucinated case law, and the slow-motion contraction of the 8(a) Program: SBA has approved only a fraction of its usual annual admissions and has not processed a new application since August 2025. Koprince also breaks down a common and costly SAM self-certification misconception that catches contractors off guard.Timestamps:00:03:00 — Legal environment shifts and the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul00:07:00 – 00:13:00 — Contracting officer discretion, bid protest strategy, and relationships with agencies00:15:00 – 00:19:00 — AI-drafted protests and hallucinated case law at GAO00:20:00 – 00:25:00 — The 8(a) Program's admissions freeze and sole-source pressure00:25:00 – 00:31:00 — Small business self-certification, affiliation rules, and the SAM misconceptionResource Links:Steven Koprince's LinkedIn profileChelsea's LinkedIn ProfileThe FedLift Launchpad🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

In federal contracting, your network is your net worth, and most small businesses are working with one far too small to win what they are capable of winning.On this Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts continues the #RoadtoHUBZone series with Tim Hagerty, founder and CEO of TeamingPro and a board member of the HUBZone Contractors National Council.Tim started TeamingPro after a lesson every small business learns the hard way: capability is rarely what holds you back, your network is. He breaks down what actually makes a strong teaming partner (past performance with the specific buyer, not just a matching capability), why teaming wins a larger slice of a bigger contract rather than a smaller slice of the same one, and how technology can take the friction out of finding and reaching the right partners. The conversation widens into the fragility of the domestic manufacturing supply chain and the reshoring opportunity, then lands on the 2026 National HUBZone Conference, where TeamingPro is powering the matchmaking so attendees arrive already knowing who they should meet.2026 National HUBZone Conference, July 21 and 22 (golf outing July 20) at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia. Timestamps00:00 Welcome and who Tim is01:00 What TeamingPro is and why he built it02:00 The convention problem: 4,000 people, no blinking arrows06:00 What makes a strong teaming partner10:00 The network is the bottleneck, not capability14:00 The bigger pie: small businesses winning together17:00 TeamingPro’s role in the HUBZone Conference matchmaking25:00 Manufacturing supply chain risk and reshoring33:00 SBA momentum and opening up competition36:00 How to reach Tim and TeamingProResources:Tim Hagerty's LinkedIn Profile Chelsea's LinkedIn ProfileOther resources:TeamingPro WebsiteHUBZone Contractors National Council2026 National HUBZone Conference (register) 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

A federal workforce leader recently told a room of executives they would be the last generation to manage an all-human team. Paul Serotkin has spent 40 years watching this industry change, and he thinks that one line explains most of what is coming next.On today's episode of GovCon Unscripted, Paul Serotkin, CEO and founder of the Serotkin Group, joins Chelsea Roberts for a wide-ranging conversation on adapting your federal business while the ground keeps moving. Paul began his career fighting for what became the Small Business Innovation Research Act and was in the Rose Garden when it was signed in 1982. Since then he has run a mergers and acquisitions practice, founded the boutique investment bank Minuteman Ventures, operated small and socio-economic government contractors, and mentored founders through SCORE and Boston Business Mentors.In this episode, Paul and Chelsea get into the difference between change that lasts and change that is just the pendulum swinging back, why a business plan is now a quarterly discipline rather than an annual ritual, when a subcontractor should stop being afraid to prime, how to build business development into every role in the company, and why the leaders managing teams today may be the last to manage an all-human workforce. Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Paul's 40-year GovCon arc02:00 Excitement or dread: what is really changing03:00 Pendulum swing versus permanent change: commerciality, AI, SBIR05:00 Contracting-officer discretion, fixed-price default, a roughly $1 trillion DoD request08:00 Write it down: a business plan that survives the quarter11:00 Focus versus shiny-object syndrome13:00 The subcontracting pathway, and when to stop being afraid to prime18:00 BD as a team sport: aligning the front office and the back office21:00 Everyone is a salesperson26:00 Aligning incentives with what the company wants27:30 The last all-human workforce30:00 The proposal that bans AI: a double-edged sword30:30 SCORE and Boston Business Mentors: free expertise most never use34:30 How to reach PaulResources:Paul Serotkin's LinkedIn profile Chelsea Robert's LinkedIn profileSerotkin Group's WebsiteOther resources:Boston Business Mentors' WebsiteSCORE Organization's website 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/

Most people file HUBZone under “niche set-aside.” It was designed as an economic development engine for the communities America left behind, and it is sitting at an inflection point right now.On this Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts opens the #RoadtoHUBZone series with Michelle Burnett, Vice Chair of the HUBZone Contractors National Council, ahead of the 2026 National HUBZone Conference.Michelle has worked with the HUBZone program since she was 20. She walks through its original intent as a place-based economic development tool, the multiplier effect it was built to create, and why its biggest challenges today are problems of execution and acquisition alignment rather than flaws in the program itself. The conversation covers the 2019 regulatory overhaul and the changes the Council fought for, what aligning the program with domestic manufacturing and reshoring could unlock, and why teaming has become a survival strategy for small firms that feel like the rug is being pulled out from under them.It closes with a direct call: show up, advocate, and be at the table. The 2026 National HUBZone Conference runs July 21 and 22 (with a golf outing July 20) at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia.Timestamps00:00 Welcome and who Michelle is01:00 The 2026 National HUBZone Conference and what is new this year03:00 Who should come, and why large business turnout is so high04:00 Where the program’s execution falls short06:00 Advocacy, the FAR overhaul, and why your voice matters09:00 The program is not broken, the execution is10:00 The multiplier effect, a hand up rather than a handout13:00 HUBZone On The Rise and the manufacturing consortium17:00 How to get involved and where to find the conferenceResources:Michelle Burnett's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-burnett-21737771/Chelsea's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseadroberts/Other resources:HUBZone Contractors National Council: https://www.hubzonecouncil.org/2026 National HUBZone Conference (register): https://www.hubzonecouncil.org/2026-National-HUBZone-ConferenceHUBZone Council LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2992361/ 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

Everyone has a CSO now. Almost nobody runs one the way the people who built the first ones did.Adam C. Grant was in the room when some of the first commercial ones went live, and he has thoughts on why the speed never matched the promise.Adam C. Grant went from enlisted Air Force to commissioned officer to contracting officer managing a large air and space portfolio at Patrick Space Force Base, where his team launched some of the first commercial Commercial Solutions Openings in the country, coast to coast across both launch ranges. Then he crossed the table: early-stage venture investing, and now business development and capture at Core4ce. In this Success After Service episode he and Chelsea Roberts get into why owning a contracting vehicle is not the same as knowing how to run it, what the consolidation of vehicles into places like the GSA Schedules is doing to competition, and the unglamorous discipline behind a successful transition out of service. Practical, direct, and built for practitioners who want to move faster without pretending the failures do not happen.Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and who is Adam C. Grant01:00 From enlisted Air Force to commissioned officer to acquisition03:00 Running the first commercial CSOs at Patrick Space Force Base05:00 Why six months is not enough to prepare for transition06:00 LinkedIn Premium as an intelligence tool for service members08:00 Reframing your skillsets beyond the obvious career path09:00 Why you need two or three champions who will not blow smoke10:00 Shoot or shoot: the follow-up discipline that builds a network12:00 Breaking into early-stage investing from outside the major markets17:00 Reading founders in the first three minutes20:00 Why a no is not a no forever24:00 What is changing in business development and capture today26:00 Vehicle consolidation, GSA MAS, and the competition it creates27:00 From pitch days to CSOs everywhere28:00 Why owning the vehicle is not the same as knowing how to run it31:00 How to reach Adam (search Adam C. Grant) and the 15-minute ruleResource links: Core4ce WebsiteAdam C. Grant's LinkedIn profileChelsea Roberts' LinkedIn profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

Landing a spot on a GSA schedule feels like the win. It is really just permission to start competing, and the clock starts the day you sign.Most small businesses treat a contract vehicle as the goal. Shenê Commodore, CPCM, founder and CEO of Commodore Consulting, has been on both sides of that assumption, as a former government contracts professional and now as the consultant companies call when they need to actually use the vehicle they fought to get.In this conversation, Shenê and host Chelsea Roberts get into the real state of GSA in a year of fast-moving change: the largest FAR revision in more than 40 years, GSA's move toward centralized procurement, and the compliance math that decides whether you keep your schedule or lose it. Shenê explains why a BPA, a schedule, or a spot on OASIS+ is access rather than revenue, what actually counts as past performance, and how to map your project scope to the right NAICS code so you pass GSA's scope review, which is now partly run by AI. She also walks through where AI genuinely helps a small contractor, from market research to oral presentation prep, and the data-verification discipline that keeps you out of trouble.If you are weighing whether you need a GSA schedule, or you have one and it is not producing, this episode is the practitioner's map.Timestamps00:00 Intro00:50 Meet Shenê Commodore and Commodore Consulting01:20 From a DCAA internship to TRICARE, both sides of the table03:30 Losing a job, finding NCMA, and going out on her own06:30 Turbulent times and the pace of change07:00 The FAR revisions, the biggest in 40-plus years08:40 The qualification myth, it was always required09:50 GSA as the centralized procurement agency11:00 Do you actually need a GSA schedule?12:30 GSA teaming, credit as a sub and MAS JV schedules17:00 Compliance, sales thresholds and transactional data reporting19:00 BPAs, OASIS+, and what counts as a real sale20:00 The car you cannot drive, a vehicle is not a sale22:00 Scope review, NAICS mapping, and GSA's use of AI25:00 Where AI fits, automations, research, oral presentations28:00 Guardrails, hallucinations, and the C.R.A.P. test33:00 How to reach Shene and her closing adviceResource links:Shene Commodore on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shenecommodore/Commodore Consulting: https://www.commodoreconsulting.comShene's Stan store: https://stan.store/SheneCommodoreChelsea Roberts on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseadroberts/🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

Twenty-four years in, retired as a sergeant major out of JSOC, and the hardest part of leaving wasn't the job market. It was turning in the badge and trusting the mission would carry forward without him.In this Success After Service episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts talks with Josh Brandt, Technology Director for C5 Systems at ManTech, about what military transition actually demands once the uniform comes off. Josh spent 24 years in the Army, served at NATO, instructed, deployed to Iraq, and finished his career as the J6R sergeant major at JSOC before moving into industry. He's candid about the myths that trip people up: that your value automatically translates, that the biggest offer is the best one, and that you can do this alone. The conversation covers building marketability before you separate, running a job search like a target package, choosing a company on culture rather than comp, and using DoD SkillBridge to test-drive an employer. Josh also points listeners to the programs that carried him through: The Honor Foundation, Warriors Ethos, and Home Base.Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and the Success After Service series 01:00 Meet Josh Brandt 06:30 Be comfortable being uncomfortable 12:00 The myth of automatic recognition 14:00 Same mission, different uniform 24:00 Run your job search like a target package 28:00 It doesn't have to be the forever place 29:00 SkillBridge and time pressure 31:30 Resources and how to reach JoshResources:Josh Brandt's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea's LinkedIn ProfileManTech's WebsiteOther resources: The Honor Foundation: Warriors EthosHome Base🎧 Listen now on: 🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482 🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHy Like and follow us: 🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS 🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/ 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/ 

A cleared-defense billet drew 350 applications in 24 hours. Every resume looked perfect. Most of them weren't real.That's where the federal hiring market actually is right now, and it's the conversation Chelsea Roberts has with Richie Lampani in this episode of GovCon Unscripted.Richie is a Fractional Head of Talent who has built recruiting infrastructure from zero for EarthDaily Federal (geospatial intelligence, cleared defense) and runs his own firm, Rebel Talent Systems. His path is not traditional. He came up in the music industry, booked Wu-Tang Clan and Marilyn Manson, and learned to act as an agent for both sides of every deal. He brought that instinct into 14 years of recruiting and now applies it to one of the toughest cleared-talent markets in recent memory.In this conversation, Richie and Chelsea walk through the structural shifts every federal contractor and every job seeker needs to understand right now. They cover why the resume has stopped working as a screening signal, why job boards now flood roles with 150 to 350 applications inside hours, and why AI-tailored resumes have collapsed the differentiation any candidate can claim on paper. Richie shares his frontline experience with fraudulent applicants, suspected overseas operators using AI and stolen profiles to bid on US technical and even cleared roles, and walks through the specific tells that catch them, including a memorable Chicago subway question that broke one candidate. He explains why TS/SCI full-scope-poly roles are paradoxically the safest hiring ground in the current environment, and why networking has reclaimed its position as the only durable channel for sales and capture hires in a 12-to-18-month federal sales cycle.Practitioners on the job-search side will hear specific tactics: how to construct a LinkedIn profile that actually surfaces in recruiter back-end SEO, why your About section and tagline matter more than your headline, why political content on LinkedIn is shrinking your opportunity set, and why Richie himself took a third-shift stocking job at Walmart during his last search rather than burn cash chasing roles he hadn't networked into.Timestamps:00:00 — Open · Richie introduces himself and his three current fractional engagements 00:50 — The music-industry-to-recruiting path · why booking bands taught him to agent both sides 03:20 — What Richie is hiring for now · AI/ML and all levels of sales 04:30 — The fraudulent candidate problem · who is doing it and why it is so hard to catch 07:50 — The Chicago subway tell · how a single geography question broke a fraudulent applicant 10:30 — Why cleared roles are the safest place to hire right now 11:30 — 350 applications in 24 hours · why the job board model has broken 13:30 — "The resume is probably dead" · why AI-tailored resumes have collapsed differentiation 14:45 — Why sales hires now come almost entirely from networking, not applications 15:30 — Richie's own job search · 30 interviews from referrals, one callback from an application 16:15 — Walking into Walmart for third-shift stocking work mid-search · the case against shame 17:20 — Drop the resume off in person · why the hybrid candidate has the edge 19:30 — LinkedIn hygiene · why open-networking is hurting your algorithm 22:00 — The Rebel Talent Systems free LinkedIn SEO tool 23:45 — Top two pieces of advice: clean resume, and keep politics off your profile 28:00 — How to actually stand out · build something useful and show your work 29:30 — How to find Richie · Rebel Talent Systems and Rachel Tyrell, his autonomous AI assistantResource links:Richie's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea's LinkedIn profileRebel Talent Systems (free LinkedIn SEO tool): https://rebeltalentsystems.comRichie's books: Head and Heart: Winning the AI Recruiting War · Unfinished Rooms: Why Great Employees Keep One Foot Out the DoorOther resources:https://[email protected]🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #communityhttps://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

The SBIR reauthorization is done. Public Law 119-83, signed April 13, in force through September 30, 2031. The headlines focused on the $30 million Strategic Breakthrough Award. The real story is everything underneath it.In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts sits down with Jerry Hollister, Co-Owner of BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Consulting (BBCetc) and a former DoD contracting officer with three decades in the SBIR/STTR space. Jerry walks through the actual mechanics of what changed in the reauthorization, what didn't, and where the program quietly shifted in ways most companies haven't internalized yet.The conversation covers Strategic Breakthrough Awards (up to $30M, five agencies, 1:1 match, must come from existing SBIR budget). The sole source training mandate for contracting officers, an authority that has existed since Reagan but that most KOs are afraid to use. The new foreign influence disclosure regime and the eight-list cross-check that agencies must now run. The shift to monthly topic releases at DoD. And the multiple award winner debate, where the senator from Massachusetts and the SBIR mill problem held up the entire bill for two months.Jerry also discusses BBCetc's pricing model (hourly, no success fees, no equity), the FAST Program network across 42 states, and his recommendation for any company sitting on the edge of the program.Timestamps:00:00 Cold open00:30 Welcome and introductions01:00 What BBCetc does and the SBIR/STTR consulting model01:40 The reauthorization fight and Public Law 119-8303:20 SBIR program mechanics. Phase one, phase two, phase three07:30 The phase two to phase three valley of death08:50 Why DoD acquisition timelines kill SBIR transitions12:30 What the reauthorization actually changed13:00 Sole source training for contracting officers14:00 The Strategic Breakthrough Award explained16:00 Where the match dollars can come from17:30 Why a $30M award is unlikely in practice19:00 No new money. Just new authority.20:00 DoD's shift to monthly topic releases21:30 Why the cycle changed and whether it sticks24:00 Pre-solicitation, DSIP, and the FAR-based dialogue rules29:00 Foreign influence disclosures and the eight-list check33:30 The SBIR mill debate and the multiple award winner question36:00 The benchmark proposal that didn't pass38:30 What the new topic limits will look like starting October 140:30 BBCetc's pricing model and the FAST Program network43:30 How to reach JerryResources:Jerry's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea's LinkedIn profileBBCetc WebsiteAdditional Resources:Public Law 119-83 DSIP (Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal): https://www.congress.gov/119/plaws/publ83/PLAW-119publ83.pdfSBA FAST Program: https://www.sbir.gov/community/fast🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #communityhttps://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

The proposal doesn't win the contract. The offer wins. And the offer is built on strategy, and strategy is built on relationships. By the time the RFP shows up on eBuy, the contract is usually already decided.That's the through-line of this week's conversation with David Stearman, Founder and CEO of Proposal Strategy and Development Consulting, who has spent 27 years inside federal proposals at firms like Booz Allen and on the consulting side serving small and midsize GovCons. David walks Chelsea through the structural problems facing small businesses in the current environment, the bid/no-bid discipline most smalls lack, why PWin above 70 percent is almost always a fiction, and where AI fits (and doesn't) in proposal work.David Stearman founded Proposal Strategy and Development Consulting in February 2015 after a career that took him from freelance academic editor to senior director of proposals at large GovCons. His firm provides full-spectrum proposal support to small and midsize federal contractors, including direct support, staff augmentation, training, coaching, mentoring, and consulting. The firm's stated values are relationships over transactions and radical honesty, and David's idea of value to a client often includes telling them not to pursue an opportunity, even when that costs him consulting hours.In this episode, David and Chelsea cover the past year's impact on small GovCons from DOGE, the FAR overhaul, and reorienting priorities. They get into why the smalls who marketed themselves as nimble were often the ones caught flat-footed, particularly narrow-banded firms in PMO support that lost contracts and now have nothing to sell in an M&A. David argues that the real path to success on GSA Schedules and large IDIQs is not winning task orders, it is creating them: shaping opportunities, marketing the vehicle to customers, and building relationships long before the RFP drops.The conversation goes deep on bid/no-bid discipline. David presents his three-circle Venn diagram for pursuit decisions (can we do it, can we win it, can we make money doing it), explains why PWin is a "made-up number," and makes the case that win rate and capture rate together tell a very different story than either does alone. He also unpacks why the proposal field has a structural burnout problem and how owners who hand RFPs to proposal pros without upstream work are part of the cause.On AI, David is neither an evangelist nor a Luddite. He breaks down where AI tools (RFP shredders, outline generators, gate-review prep) have given him a net-negative ROI because the quality-check time exceeded the original task. His framing: AI is a tool, the implementation matters more than the tool, and "more and faster is not the same as better."The episode closes on relationships and the principle David calls the three degrees of Kevin Bacon. 95 percent of his business has come through referrals, including a client he met after spending the first 20 minutes of a discovery call playing Jewish geography rather than talking shop. David's standing offer: he will always take a conversation.Timestamps00:00 — Welcome and David's introduction01:00 — How a philosophy degree leads to federal proposals04:00 — The love-hate relationship with the industry07:00 — The past year: DOGE, FAR overhaul, and small business impact10:00 — The perfect storm: NAICS graduation, PMO cancellations, no M&A assets13:00 — GSA strategy: don't win task orders, create them15:00 — The proposal is not what wins, the offer is17:00 — Why proposal professionals burn out at a structural level20:00 — Bid/no-bid as growth strategy and the three-circle Venn diagram22:00 — Why PWin is a made-up number and what to measure instead24:00 — AI in proposals: the cautious case29:00 — When AI use cases backfire34:00 — Where AI actually works in proposal workflows40:00 — Contact and how to reach David42:00 — Three degrees of Kevin Bacon and why every conversation mattersResources:Follow David on LinkedInProposal Strategy and Development Consulting WebsiteDavid's email: [email protected]'s LinkedIn profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/

Your runway isn't measured in dollars; it's measured in pivots. And in defense, every pivot takes forever.Geoff Orazem has spent 15 years inside the defense innovation machine as a Marine, a McKinsey alum, a founder of the Eastern Foundry incubator, a J2 Ventures advisor, and a current DARPA contractor working on acquisitions reform. In this new episode of GovCon Unscripted, he sits down with Chelsea Roberts to unpack why so many promising startups stall when they try to sell to DOD first, why a commercial revenue stream is almost always the smarter on-ramp, and what's actually changing (and what isn't) in software acquisition, OTs, IDIQs, CMMC, and the ATO process. Geoff also previews a Day Zero angel fund concept aimed at the part of the market he says is most underserved: the founders who haven't even hit seed yet.Timestamps:00:00 — Cold open00:30 — Meet Geoff: Marine, McKinsey, Eastern Foundry, J2, DARPA02:30 — What an incubator actually is (and the Sam's Club model)04:30 — Competitor or teammate? Inside the incubator dynamic07:50 — Dual-use vs. defense-only: where the bright line lives10:30 — Why commercial revenue is the better door into GovCon14:30 — Software acquisition: what's improving, what's still broken17:00 — The CMMC perception problem and the cheat sheet DOD should write22:00 — 670 FAR clauses and the "first contract in a box" idea25:30 — How venture got into defense, and why J2 is different29:30 — Where J2 is investing: comms, cyber, medical, HR tech34:30 — The Day Zero angel fund thesis37:30 — Final thoughts and how to reach GeoffResource Links:🔗 Geoff Orazem on LinkedIn🔗 J2 Ventures🔗 DARPA🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide: https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine: https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketing: https://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategy: https://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

Most government innovation never reaches the warfighter. Bryon Kroger has spent a decade explaining why and shipping software anyway.In this Success After Service Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, host Chelsea Roberts sits down with Bryon Kroger, CEO and Founder of Rise8 and co-founder of Kessel Run, the DoD's first software factory. Bryon spent ten years on active duty in the Air Force, first as an intelligence officer running targeting operations, then in acquisitions, where he stood up the program that became the proof point for modern software delivery in defense.This conversation goes places most GovCon podcasts won't. Bryon explains why Kessel Run's core program was officially killed on March 31st, why the Air Force "failed Kessel Run" rather than the other way around, and why he believes acquisition reform is a dead end ("the cavalry is never coming"). He breaks down the Inverse NUMI Maneuver, his theory of culture change borrowed from the Toyota-GM joint venture. He explains why behavior has to change before thinking ever will. He gets specific on the Software Acquisition Pathway, why MVP and MVCR have been pattern-matched into the same IOC/FOC trap they were meant to replace, and why his teams shipped to a secret network in 119 days while modern SWP programs project initial delivery at two to three years. And he shares the framework he uses now at Rise8: net value releases over arbitrary capability gates.For small business GovCons trying to get a foot in the door on real modernization work, this episode is a field manual. For acquisitions professionals, it's a mirror.Timestamps00:00 Cold open00:30 Welcome + Success After Service series intro01:00 Bryon's background: 10 years Air Force, Intel to acquisitions, founding Kessel Run02:30 Is "digital transformation" still a real term? The analog government / digital world impedance mismatch04:30 Catch-22 of culture change: you can't change behavior without breaking legacy process06:00 Continuous delivery as the first move — and the Inverse NUMI Maneuver08:00 "F reform, the cavalry is never coming" — why policy reform doesn't change the ground truth09:00 The RMF myth: NIST documentation actually supports continuous ATO11:00 Kessel Run's status today: officially killed March 31st, and why14:00 Why Rise8 focuses on Space Force and VA, not Air Force16:00 The outcomes story: DORA metrics, deployment frequency, and what bureaucracy did to them18:00 Why severing the user connection killed user-centered design20:00 Talking directly to end users — the contracting problem nobody admits22:30 Software Acquisition Pathway: useful tool, weaponized by the bureaucracy25:00 Net value releases vs. IOC/FOC theater27:00 The Rise8 name: Fall seven, Rise8 (a Japanese proverb)28:00 The new GovTech education nonprofit + Prodacity + Ship Summit30:00 Conference Kidz: Chelsea's nonprofit story31:30 "Cynicism is cowardice. You need rampant optimism."Resources:Chelsea's LinkedIn profileBryon Kroger's LinkedInRise8 WebsiteMore from BryonDOW Acquisition Playbook21 Days to Contract ActSoftware Factory 2.0The Hard Truth on ProductionCOTS Maximalist (Not Anti-Build)Mission Operating System (free): https://www.rise8.usContinuous ATO Playbook: available on the Rise8 website🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketing:https://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategy:https://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

If you're waiting until the RFP drops…you're already too late.The real influence happens before the budget is written.In this new episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Nic Adams, Director of Government Relations at Overland AI, to break down what most contractors get wrong about Capitol Hill.Spoiler: It’s not about hiring a lobbyist and magically landing appropriations.Nic shares how the NDAA and Defense Appropriations process really works, what “fly-in season” actually means, why BD and government relations must run in parallel, and what the “frozen middle” is doing to slow innovation across defense acquisition.If you're building in GovCon, especially defense tech or AI, this episode is your Hill playbook.What You'll Learn: • The difference between lobbying and consulting  • Why appropriations adds don’t guarantee revenue  • How to approach Hill staff effectively  • Why staffers matter more than members  • What the “frozen middle” really means  • How to shape policy without being a registered lobbyist Key Timestamps:00:02:45 — Why the NDAA matters more than most founders realize00:04:00 — What “fly-in season” is and why it works00:10:30 — Why it’s never too early to engage the Hill00:16:50 — How to structure Hill meetings (30 minutes max)00:25:00 — Why appropriations money doesn’t automatically go to you00:29:00 — Understanding the “frozen middle.”Resources:Chelsea's LinkedIn profileNic's LinkedIn profileOverland AI LinkedIn page🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketing:https://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategy:https://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

You can’t market to SLED the way you market to the Fed. And assuming you can is draining budgets fast.In this new episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Lisa Sherwin Wulf, Founder of LSW Marketing, to break down the strategic marketing gaps hindering GovCon growth, especially as companies expand from federal to state and local markets.From unrealistic ROI timelines…to performance marketing myths…to why SLED can quietly outspend Fed…this episode challenges long-held assumptions about public sector marketing.If you're frustrated with a slow pipeline, weak conversion, or event-heavy strategies that aren’t delivering, this conversation will recalibrate your approach.What You’ll Learn:Why Fed and SLED require fundamentally different marketing strategiesThe KPI indicators most GovCon teams ignoreWhy “just go to more events” is a dangerous mindsetThe real role of AI in marketing productivity (and risk)Why evergreen content still wins if you use it correctlyTimestamps:00:02:00 – Marketing expectations vs. GovCon reality00:05:00 – Why the public sector doesn’t convert like the commercial00:20:00 – The SolarWinds experiment: Contact Us vs. Free Trial00:22:00 – Fed vs. SLED strategy differences00:31:00 – Will AI replace marketers?00:36:00 – Wulf Cocktail Den & creative brandingResources:Chelsea's LinkedIn profileLisa's LinkedIn profileLSW Marketing website🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketing:https://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategy:https://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

Defense innovation is no longer a slow, deliberate process, it’s a race against time.Discover how AI, venture capital, and emerging technologies are accelerating the future of warfare and government contracting.In this new episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with defense technology consultant Graham Plaster to explore the rapidly evolving defense innovation ecosystem. From the rise of venture-backed defense unicorns to the growing demand for AI, drones, and next-generation manufacturing, Graham shares firsthand insights into how the government and industry must adapt to stay competitive.The conversation dives into the shifting role of venture capital, the recalibration of large defense primes, and the importance of networking within innovation communities like Silicon Nation. Listeners will also gain perspective on how emerging technologies, such as AI-enabled systems and advanced manufacturing, are reshaping the future of national security. Whether you're a small business, startup, or established contractor, this episode offers actionable insights on navigating the GovCon landscape and staying relevant in an era defined by speed and disruption. Key Topics Covered: • The rise of venture capital in defense tech • AI, drones, and data centers are shaping modern warfare • Disruption of traditional defense primes • The importance of networking and innovation ecosystems • Next-generation maritime manufacturing and 3D printing • Bridging the speed gap between government and industryTimestamps: • 00:00 – Introduction to GovCon Unscripted • 00:00:30 – Graham Plaster’s career journey • 00:03:30 – Emerging technologies shaping defense • 00:05:00 – Venture capital’s role in defense innovation • 00:07:30 – The AI ecosystem and future implications • 00:11:30 – Silicon Nation and networking communities • 00:14:00 – Disruption of primes vs. small businesses • 00:16:00 – Next-generation maritime manufacturing • 00:19:30 – Advice for government and industry innovators • 00:21:00 – Final thoughts and how to connect with GrahamResources:Graham's LinkedIn profileChelsea's LinkedIn Profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketing:https://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategy:https://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

This Success After Service (SAS) episode features Daniel Gomez, Founder & CEO of First Person Xperience and 23-year Army veteran, returning to GovCon Unscripted for a high-level discussion on modern warfare, doctrine, AI disruption, and the power of simulation-based training.From EFP innovation in Iraq to drone warfare in Ukraine and generative AI shaping perception in real time, Danny breaks down why technology alone doesn’t win wars, humans do.This conversation explores:• Why military planning is fundamentally storytelling• How simulation and “fictitious play” prepare leaders for chaos• Why doctrine must evolve, but carefully• The psychological impact of information warfare• What GovCon leaders can learn from battlefield adaptabilityIf you operate in federal contracting, national defense, or emerging tech—this episode reframes how you think about risk, innovation, and strategic decision-making. Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Success After Service series02:00 – Iran strike discussion & strategic reactions08:30 – Why technology alone doesn’t win wars10:45 – The Rhino Mount innovation story16:00 – Drones, doctrine, and adaptation19:00 – AI, psyop anime, and perception warfare25:00 – Storytelling as military planning31:00 – “The Closest Thing to War” training philosophy36:00 – Lessons from Ukraine drone footage39:00 – Building the LAB: Simulation for modern leaders Resources:First Person Xperience WebsiteDaniel's LinkedIn ProfileChelsea's LinkedIn Profile 🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine::https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketing:https://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategy::https://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Guy Timberlake, Co-Founder of The American Small Business Coalition, to talk about the myths, misunderstandings, and bad habits that keep government contractors stuck in the messy middle.Guy shares lessons from nearly four decades in federal contracting, including why most companies chase the wrong opportunities, why RFIs aren’t the starting point, and why contract ceilings don’t mean what most people think they mean. The conversation dives into Ethical Stalking for Government Contractors, the importance of real customer intelligence, and how expectations have changed between primes, subs, and agencies.This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to move from reactive bidding to intentional strategy in the federal market.Timestamps00:00 Intro01:00 Guy’s background in federal contracting05:00 From doing to teaching GovCon strategy07:30 Why teaming expectations changed10:00 RFIs, competition, and market shifts14:00 Iceberg blindness explained17:00 Easy-button myths in GovCon20:00 Ethical Stalking framework23:00 Intelligence vs tools30:00 Contract ceilings vs real value33:00 Why context matters in GovCon data36:00 Always be learning37:30 How to connect with GuyResourcesGo-To-Guy Timberlake's LinkedIn ProfileThe American Small Business CoalitionChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn Profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketinghttps://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/18 AI Prompts to Build Your GovCon Growth Strategyhttps://collaborativecompositions.com/18-ai-prompts-for-govcon-growth-strategy/

In this Success After Service (SAS) episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Matt MacGregor, Founder and COO of Creative Defense Network, to talk about the real tension inside defense acquisition moving fast vs staying compliant.Matt shares lessons from 20+ years inside the Pentagon, working acquisition reform, policy, software pathway rollout, OTAs, and Middle Tier of Acquisition. The conversation breaks down what’s actually slowing the system down, where policy helps, where it hurts, and why leadership, not regulations may be the biggest driver of change.Topics include:Acquisition reform reality vs theoryOTAs and why flexibility mattersMTA and software pathway lessons learnedIDIQ strategy problemsPolicy vs leadership in reformWhere acquisition is heading nextTimestamps:01:05 Matt’s background in acquisition03:38 Being told he was “going too fast”04:45 MTA and reform efforts07:12 Creativity requires fewer boundaries08:35 How MTA is actually used10:30 Changes to acquisition authority15:05 Software pathway challenges20:00 OTAs and flexible contracting22:03 “OT should be used for pretty much everything”24:00 IDIQ problems28:14 Fear of doing it wrong33:40 Future of acquisition reformResources:Matt MacGregor's LinkedIn ProfileMatt MacGregor's Email AddressCreative Defense NetworkDefense Tech and AcquisitionChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn Profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketinghttps://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Dr. David Bray to discuss why modern threats are moving faster than government acquisition cycles and what that means for contractors, policy makers, and the defense industrial base.They explore the growing gap between policy and implementation, the risks of long procurement timelines, why agility matters more than ever, and how leadership, joint ventures, and new funding models may shape the future of government contracting.Timestamps: 01:00 Policy vs implementation 03:20 Governance vs government 06:30 Acquisition speed problems 08:10 Agile vs traditional systems 10:30 Lessons from Ukraine and drones 14:00 Policy changes and execution gaps 18:00 Operational accountability 21:05 Obsolescence risk in procurement 26:20 Responsible heretics and leadership 33:40 Policy changes ahead 37:30 Future of primes and joint venturesResources:Dr. David Bray's LinkedIn ProfileStimson CenterChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn Profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketinghttps://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts interviews Eric Coffie, Founder of GovCon Giants, about authority-building in federal contracting, 8(a) strategy shifts, content positioning, and why proximity to DC changes everything.If you're navigating government contracting in 2025 and beyond, this episode covers:• 8(a) program strategy• Federal market contraction & opportunity• FAR changes & regulatory evolution• GovCon content marketing strategy• The power of deep focus• How to build visibility without hypeThis episode is designed for serious GovCon professionals ready to move from noise to authority.Timestamps:01:00 – Eric’s mission and move to DC05:00 – Cutting through AI noise08:00 – Thumbnail strategy & YouTube growth11:00 – The power of asking for help17:00 – Focus and productivity21:00 – Why proximity to DC matters28:00 – FAR overhaul discussion33:00 – Why now may be the time for 8(a)36:00 – The shrinking contractor pool opportunity40:00 – What’s nextResources:Eric Coffie's LinkedIn pageGovCon GiantsChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn page🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketinghttps://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/#govcon #governmentcontracting #8a #federalcontracts #smallbusiness #procurement #entrepreneurship #businessgrowth

What happens when a Special Operations veteran decides the future of national defense depends on creativity?In this Success After Service (SAS) Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Daniel Gomez, Founder & CEO of First Person Xperience, to explore why creativity is rewarded on the battlefield, but punished in garrison. And why that mindset gap may be costing more than we realize.From Civil Affairs and JSOU instruction to building immersive national defense simulations, Danny shares how experiential learning, controlled failure, and scenario design can reshape how the defense community prepares for future conflict.They discuss:Why we’re always preparing for yesterday’s warThe failure of imagination cited in the 9/11 reportHow immersive training changes retention and decision-makingThe AI experiment that left leaders “woefully unprepared”Why innovation gaps between adversaries matterBuilding The Lab: a national defense creativity engineTimestamps:02:15 – Danny’s transition from Active Duty to Founder06:40 – What “First Person Experience” actually means11:10 – Immersion vs. virtual training16:35 – “Creativity is rewarded on the battlefield and punished in garrison”22:20 – Fighting yesterday’s war27:05 – The failure of imagination problem31:40 – The AI scenario experiment (Project Genesis)39:10 – Trust, control, and no-win futuresResources:Daniel Gomez's LinkedIn ProfileFirst Person Xperience WebsiteChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn Profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/AI Prompt Guide for Federal Contractor Marketinghttps://collaborativecompositions.com/ai-prompt-guide-for-federal-contractor-marketing/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Rebecca Link, Chief Growth Officer at OneGlobe, to unpack what is changing and what is not in modern government contracting.From proposal management to orals coaching, Rebecca shares how personality, ownership, and execution are becoming even more critical in an AI-enabled GovCon environment.This episode is a masterclass in blending technology, execution, and human ownership in today’s competitive federal landscape.Timestamps:02:18 – How Rebecca Found GovCon07:45 – Proposal Management vs. Orals Coaching14:52 – Coaching Engineers & Presentation Mindset24:20 – Are PowerPoints Dead?34:58 – “You can’t AI an oral presentation.”37:09 – “Orals is the only way to get at that real true level of talent.”Resources:Rebecca Link's LinkedIn pageOneGlobeChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn page🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Jeff Shapiro, Partner at CohnReznick, to unpack what DCAA audits actually focus on and what contractors often get wrong.Jeff explains why materiality matters more than penny-level perfection, how audit risk really shows up in cost-reimbursable contracts, and why “follow the funding” is one of the most dangerous habits in government accounting. They also dig into LPTA risk, soft fraud in time charging, and why commercial companies struggle when they enter cost-based contracting.This episode is essential listening for contractors navigating DCAA audits, cost allocation, commercial-to-government transitions, and compliance culture.Timestamps:01:12 – Jeff Shapiro’s GovCon background05:48 – What DCAA actually does12:06 – The 3-cent check story14:42 – Why materiality matters22:10 – Proposal costs vs. contract scope32:18 – “Follow the funding” risksResources:Jeff Shapiro's LinkedIn pageCohnReznick GovCon ResourcesChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn page🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Michelle Burnett, President and Founder of Rooted in Resilience Wellness and newly appointed Vice Chair of the HUBZone Contractors National Council, for a deep conversation on what the HUBZone program was truly designed to do and where execution has gone off course.Michelle explains why HUBZone was never meant to be a compliance exercise or a goal-checking mechanism, but a community-driven economic engine rooted in geographic investment, workforce stability, and local multiplier effects. Drawing on her 15+ years inside the federal small business ecosystem, she breaks down how acquisition strategies, not small businesses, have undermined the program’s intent and what reform could look like if policymakers, agencies, and contractors realigned around mission over metrics.This episode explores economic revitalization, public-private partnerships, workforce health, and why community infrastructure must be part of acquisition strategy conversations if HUBZone is going to survive increased scrutiny.Timestamps:03:10 – Michelle’s return to HUBZone leadership as Vice Chair08:45 – What HUBZone was designed to fix in the U.S. economy14:30 – The multiplier effect and why geography matters22:05 – Where acquisition strategy diverged from program intent31:40 – Fraud narratives vs. structural procurement issues41:10 – Why reform matters more than preservationResources Mentioned:Michelle Burnett's LinkedIn pageHUBZone Contractors National CouncilChelsea Roberts's LinkedIn page🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

Join Chelsea Roberts on GovCon Unscripted for our new Success After Service special episode as she sits down with Brittinay Shaw, Marketing & Communications Executive at E&M Technologies. From jet engine mechanic and DoD flight attendant to recruitment marketing powerhouse, Brittinay shares her journey of translating military precision into branding, culture, and social media strategies that help government contractors thrive.Learn how to:Leverage military experience in a civilian careerBuild authentic company culture for recruitment and retentionUse social media strategically in GovCon without crossing compliance linesTimestamps:01:15 – Brittinay’s Air Force journey: Jet engines & DoD flight attendant05:40 – Transition to civilian life & career in MarCom10:30 – Lessons from the military applied to marketing & recruitment15:50 – The psychology of social media and branding in GovCon23:10 – Influencer marketing & C-suite content strategy30:05 – Attracting talent & teaming partners in government contracting36:50 – Advice for veterans & transitioning military personnelResources:Brittinay ShawE&M TechnologiesChelsea RobertsCollaborative CompositionsSubscribe, share, and follow for more Success After Service stories!🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this Success After Service (SAS) Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Dan Ward, Author and Co-founder of The SparkLit Group, to explore how innovation actually works after military service and why so many organizations unintentionally block it.Drawing from his career in the Air Force, his time at MITRE, and his transition to co-founding an innovation consultancy, Dan explains why innovation must be democratized across organizations rather than isolated inside special teams. He shares how language, humility, and communication determine whether ideas gain traction or trigger resistance.This conversation breaks down what “novelty with impact” really means, how innovators can invite experimentation without threatening the status quo, and why small, fast failures outperform large, prestige-driven programs. Dan also explores portfolio-based risk management, data-driven storytelling, and what punk rock teaches leaders about building sustainable cultures of innovation.Timestamps06:34 – The danger of isolated innovation teams12:11 – Why innovation challenges the status quo14:34 – Defining innovation as “novelty with impact”18:13 – “Let’s try this” as an invitation to innovate21:02 – Why communication blocks innovation more than ideas25:10 – Optimal failure vs. epic failure30:40 – Sunk cost bias and prestige programs38:03 – Portfolio theory and innovation risk42:47 – Confronting reality with data45:27 – Why data never speaks for itselfResourcesDan WardThe SparkLit Group WebsiteDan's Authored BooksChelsea Roberts LinkedIn Profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govcon-unscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

Turning innovation into operational capability is where most GovCon efforts stall. In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Sumner Lee, CEO of Fuse Integration, to unpack what it actually takes to move from early-stage R&D to programs of record.Sumner shares how Fuse has navigated the SBIR and STTR ecosystem, progressed through multiple phase three transitions, and avoided the “valley of death” that traps so many small businesses. He explains why constant warfighter engagement, operational testing, and embedding veterans inside program teams create what he calls “unfair advantages.”The conversation also explores why user experience matters in defense networking, how legacy platforms shape design constraints, and what small companies must do to survive real-world demonstrations, exercises, and mission environments.Timestamps07:01 – Fuse Integration’s mission and network focus10:25 – Using SBIR to transition real capability21:11 – Why warfighter access determines success31:20 – Operational execution during exercises35:02 – Leadership, culture, and resilienceResourcesSumner Lee's LinkedIn pageFuse Integration's LinkedInFuse integration's Instagram LinkFuse Integration's Facebook LinkChelsea Roberts' LinkedIn page🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this Success After Service (SAS) Special Episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Michelle Gardner-Ince, retired Air Force Colonel, former VA executive, and founder of GI Strategic Solutions, to unpack one of the most misunderstood assumptions in government contracting: that certifications alone lead to contracts.Michelle shares what she learned from fixing and leading the VA’s Veteran-Owned Small Business Certification Program, why “control” is the most common reason companies fail certification, and how veterans and small businesses should rethink past performance, niche strategy, and transition planning. This conversation explores what actually drives awards in GovCon and why relevance, credibility, and trust matter more than logos and labels.Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to GovCon Unscripted01:00 – Success After Service series introduction02:00 – Michelle’s Air Force and entrepreneurial background05:00 – Transitioning from military service to business ownership07:00 – Entering the VA and fixing VetCert12:00 – Why control is the #1 certification failure point18:00 – Veteran-owned certification as an “earned” designation22:00 – Why chasing certifications misses the real problem26:00 – Turning rank into relevance and revenue31:00 – Past performance starts with you36:00 – The danger of “pass-through” GovCon models41:00 – Niching down and building credibility inside agencies46:00 – Final advice for transitioning leadersResources:Michelle Gardner-Ince's LinkedIn profileGI Strategic SolutionsChelsea Roberts' LinkedIn profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

Welcome to the first GovCon Unscripted episode of the year, and a special Success After Service conversation. Chelsea Roberts sits down with Luke Shabro to unpack what it really looks like to continue serving after leaving the uniform behind.This episode explores the realities of defense innovation, why good ideas stall inside government systems, and how empathy, persistence, and understanding mission priorities still matter in GovCon. Luke shares what he’s learned navigating the space between warfighters, innovators, and industry, and what contractors often misunderstand about how government actually works.Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to GovCon Unscripted and Success After Service [06:30] Serving after the uniform comes off [18:45] Why innovation struggles inside defense systems [21:00] Understanding the problem before the solution [35:00] Empathy as a differentiator in GovCon [38:00] Being persistent without becoming noise [45:30] Final reflections on service, innovation, and realityResources: • Luke Shabro • Chelsea Roberts • Wayfinder Strategies Website • Stability Policing - Future🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

Strategic pricing is not a spreadsheet exercise; it is a leadership decision that affects risk, profitability, and execution long after award.In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Marsha Lindquist, Managing Partner/President of Granite Leadership Strategies Inc., explains why pricing must be involved early, why fixed-price contracts demand sharper strategy, and how contractors get into trouble when pricing is treated as an afterthought.Timestamps:00:01:00 – Why strategic pricing matters00:05:18 – The danger of “average pricing.”00:08:34 – Pricing is not something you slap together00:12:58 – Fixed price vs cost-plus risk00:16:45 – Inflation, escalation, and long-term risk00:24:45 – LPTA realities and race-to-the-bottom trapsResources:Secrets of Strategic Pricing for Government ContractorsGranite Leadership StrategiesMarsha Lindquist's LinkedIn profileChelsea Robert's LinkedIn profile🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here’s a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this special 'Success After Service' episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea sits down with Lawrence "Larry" Pokroy, Vice President of Business Development of BayInfotech, LLC, a veteran leader who shares what it really means to continue serving after military life, just without the uniform.Larry talks candidly about transitioning into government contracting, the mindset shift required to succeed, and the hard lessons small businesses learn as they grow.From relationships and reputation to finding your true differentiator, this conversation is packed with practical insight for veterans and non-veterans alike, navigating GovCon.On this episode, we discuss:Transitioning from military service into govconWhy relationships matter more than titlesThe mistake small businesses make when they oversellFinding your niche and true differentiatorServing with purpose beyond the uniformTimestamps:[00:00] – Welcome to GovCon Unscripted[02:18] – Transitioning from military service[05:40] – Mindset shifts after service[08:55] – Relationship-driven growth in govcon[11:53] – Why small businesses oversell[14:20] – Finding your niche and differentiator[18:10] – Lessons learned along the way[22:45] – Final advice for growing companiesLinks & Resources:Larry Pokroy on LinkedInChelsea Roberts on LinkedInBayInfotech Website🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon #community:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea sits down with Derek Hoyt, CEO of GovSignals AI, to explore how AI is transforming federal acquisition, collapsing procurement timelines, and reshaping compliance expectations across the DoD and government agencies.Derek breaks down what true end-to-end AI-powered acquisition looks like, why most tools in the market fall short, and how GovSignals is addressing challenges like CMMC, FedRAMP, IL5, data silos, proposal automation, market research, contract management, and multi-portal fragmentation.On this episode, we discuss:Why acquisition is really a linear data pipeline government never automatedHow AI accelerates capture, proposals, and post-award workflowsHow FedRAMP, CMMC, and IL5 differ and why misinterpretation creates riskWhy disconnected systems force contractors into manual workHow semantic search replaces keyword-based huntingCollapsing procurement timelines from months to minutesWhat GovSignals is doing with DIU and enterprise-level workflowsThe vision for a 10-minute transaction in federal contractingTimestamps:[00:00] – Welcome and introduction[01:10] – What GovSignals AI is and who it serves[04:10] – The limitations of today’s acquisition workflow[06:45] – Why AI is an enabler, not the entire solution[09:50] – Replacing legacy tech stacks in business development[13:20] – Crawl-walk-run adoption and internal process maturity[17:30] – Proposal, capture, and contract management as “projects”[21:40] – DIU workflows, IL5 environments, and compliance foundations[24:00] – FedRAMP vs CMMC: common industry misconceptions[27:50] – Making WAWF/PIEE invoicing easier for contractors[33:20] – The data management problem behind opportunity search[36:45] – Semantic search, reasoning agents, and enrichment[40:10] – Navigating data silos and IDIQ task orders[44:30] – Solving entity resolution and historical linkage[50:00] – Feature sets coming in 2026[52:20] – The vision of a 10-minute procurement[55:00] – How to reach Derek and learn moreLinks & Resources:• GovSignals AI• Derek Hoyt on LinkedIn• Chelsea Roberts on LinkedIn🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In the GovCon Unscripted Podcast's another special episode of 'Success After Service', Chelsea sits down with David Schiff, a Navy veteran and VP of Navy Strategic Growth at Govini, for a deep dive into what it takes for companies to adapt, stay competitive, and succeed in the evolving landscape of DoD innovation.David shares hard lessons from working across the Navy, Space Force, and broader defense ecosystem, including the realities of risk, collaboration, uncertainty, and what separates the companies that cross the “valley of death” from those that never make it.On this episode, we discuss:Why understanding your customer’s mission matters more than everHow newer DoD organizations innovate (and why they learn faster)Why companies should stop “pivoting with the wind.”Traits of founders and teams who survive the valley of deathThe role of data in shaping battlefield advantageCollaboration, timing, and how companies can stay relevantTimestamps:[00:00] – Introducing David Schiff[03:15] – What’s changing in DoD innovation[05:00] – Why newer organizations innovate differently[09:40] – Adapting to changing requirements[15:22] – How companies lose momentum[23:10] – The role of data in decision-making[29:45] – What founders misunderstand about DoD customers[35:00] – Why companies should “stay the course” instead of pivoting[42:55] – Lessons from working across Navy and Space Force[48:10] – What success looks like for companies in defenseLinks & Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• David Schiff LinkedIn• Govini's Website🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea welcomes Renee and Greg Glendenning of Quality Control University, construction educators and QC experts with more than 30 years in the federal contracting industry.They break down what QC actually requires on federal construction projects, the most common mistakes that cost contractors time and money, and what inspectors are really looking for during site visits.On this episode, we discuss:What QC really requires on federal construction projectsWhy most contractors fail before they even step on siteQC pitfalls that cause delays, rework, or non-complianceWhat federal inspectors check beyond the paperworkWhy documentation determines whether QC passes or failsHow proper training protects contractors from costly mistakesTimestamps:[00:00] – Introducing Renee and Greg[03:10] – What QC actually means for federal contractors[07:20] – QC mistakes contractors don’t realize they’re making[11:45] – Why documentation is the backbone of compliance[16:30] – What inspectors really look for[21:55] – The role of a trained QC Manager[27:40] – Building QC systems that prevent rework[33:15] – Lessons from decades in federal construction[38:00] – Final advice for contractors before bidding Links & Resources:QC University WebsiteChelsea's LinkedIn ProfileRenee’s LinkedInGreg Glendenning's LinkedInQC University YouTubeInstagram – Quality Control CollectiveTikTok – QC Collective🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI Prompts to Supercharge Your GovCon BD Engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this 'Success After Service' special episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea sits down with Gene Moran, Founder of Capitol Integration, Navy veteran, lobbyist, and trusted advisor on federal budget strategy and congressional process.Gene breaks down how Washington truly works.Not the myths, but the real interplay of timing, process, funding cycles, and influence that determines outcomes for federal contractors.He shares what companies misunderstand about advocacy, why access alone is never enough, and how small businesses can position themselves long before decisions are made.On this episode, we discuss:Understanding the federal lifecycle and why timing changes outcomesLessons from Gene’s new book, Cleared HotWhy strategy requires patience, not shortcutsHow to build influence the right wayWhat contractors get wrong about Congress and advocacyHow to align actions with budget cycles and committee movementTimestamps:[00:00] – Introducing Gene Moran[02:12] – How Washington really works behind the scenes[06:32] – Timing, process, and aligning with the federal lifecycle[09:55] – Misconceptions about access and advocacy[13:40] – Where small businesses lose momentum[18:10] – Influence versus access in the federal environment[23:05] – Gene’s book Cleared Hot and its core message[28:44] – What companies should understand before engaging Congress[33:30] – Final insights on winning in WashingtonLinks & Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Gene Moran Website• Gene’s LinkedIn• Gene’s Instagram• Gene’s YouTube Channel• Book – “Cleared Hot”🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 Join our #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to govcon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx21 AI prompts to supercharge your govcon bd engine:https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea sits down with Katie Bigelow, Founder & CEO of Mettle Ops, to talk about ethics, resilience, and the hard truths of competing in federal contracting.Katie shares her journey from Army aviation to GovCon CEO, breaking down what it really takes to lead a mission-driven company, build customer trust, and stay resilient in a market where you lose far more than you win.On this episode, we discuss:Why integrity, not shortcuts, drives long-term successHow process protects culture, employees, and customersArmy aviation, competition, and grit carried into entrepreneurshipLosing ten times for every win and pushing forward anywayWhat it means to build a mission-driven small business in GovConTimestamps:[00:00] – Introducing Katie Bigelow & Mettle Ops[06:12] – Ethics, mission, and doing business the right way[10:45] – Process, transparency, and fixing mistakes as a team[17:00] – Grit, competition, and lessons from Army aviation[19:20] – Losing ten times for every win in GovCon[24:30] – Building resilience as an entrepreneur[30:15] – What success really looks like inside a mission-driven companyLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Katie Bigelow’s LinkedIn Profile• Mettle Ops Website🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 join our #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/  New to govcon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvx 21 AI Prompts to Supercharge your GovCon BD Engine: https://collaborativecompositions.com/21-ai-prompts-to-supercharge-your-govcon-bd-engine/

In this special introductory episode, we'll be adding a twist to our usual episode setting. This time, Chelsea Roberts, CEO of Collaborative Compositions and host of GovCon Unscripted, is being interviewed by one of our special guests, Melinda Milheim of Phoenix Canyon and Christopher Zebra International.Chelsea shares the story behind her entrepreneurial journey, as well as the podcast, why it started, how it connects industry and government, and what she’s learned by flipping the script and putting herself in the hot seat.From her work helping small businesses navigate government contracting to building real conversations that go beyond policy talk, Chelsea opens up about the human side of GovCon, the importance of trust, and why real voices matter more than corporate jargon.On this episode, we discuss:How GovCon Unscripted was born and what it aims to doWhy conversations, not soundbites, drive the industry forwardBalancing storytelling and technical substance in GovCon mediaHow Collaborative Compositions is bridging communication between agencies and businessesWhat’s next for the podcast and communityTimestamps:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces GovCon Unscripted’s origin and purpose[02:30] - The value of authentic conversations in GovCon[06:10] - How storytelling helps contractors and agencies connect[10:45] - What makes GovCon media different from mainstream business talk[13:25] - Future topics, trends, and guests shaping 2026Links and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileCollaborative Compositions WebsiteGovCon Unscripted Podcast PageHey GovCon, Get Help Amazon Link When Federal Growth Stalls, Pivot and Grow Again Webinar RecapMelinda Milheim's LinkedIn ProfilePhoenix Canyon's WebsiteChristopher Zebra International's Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Michael Allison, a Marine veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Adversity Academy, who shares his deeply personal journey of transformation, from military service to mental breakdown to rebuilding life through purpose and leadership.Michael opens up about the moment that changed everything, his battle with identity after leaving the Marines, and how he turned trauma into the foundation of his business and mentorship philosophy.On this episode, we discuss:The internal battle veterans face when the uniform comes offLessons from the Marines that translate directly to entrepreneurshipOvercoming addiction, loss, and self-destruction through purposeBuilding Adversity Academy and redefining leadership through serviceWhat anyone, veteran or not, can learn about resilience, focus, and fulfillmentTimestamps:[00:00] - Introducing Michael Allison and his journey from Marine to entrepreneur[04:05] - Early career, identity struggles, and bottling emotions[09:30] - The breaking point — turning pain into purpose[15:10] - Lessons from Marine Corps leadership applied to business[20:45] - Building Adversity Academy and helping others through mentorship[26:30] - Balancing entrepreneurship, family, and mission[31:22] - Advice for veterans transitioning into civilian and business life[35:14] - Closing insights: resilience, focus, and redefining successLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/Links and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Michael Allison’s LinkedIn Profile• Adversity Academy Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Kevin Plexico, Senior Vice President of Information Solutions at Deltek, to unpack what the latest government shutdowns, FAR overhauls, and GSA changes mean for contractors heading into FY2026.From budget uncertainty to data-driven opportunity, Kevin shares how leading firms are adapting to the next wave of federal market shifts — and how to stay ahead of the curve when policy and procurement collide.On this episode, we discuss:The real impact of government shutdowns on the contractor ecosystemFederal spending projections and which agencies are poised to growGSA vehicle evolution and what’s next for contract consolidationWhy compliance, AI, and data visibility will define competitive advantage in 2026The mindset shift from panic to preparation, and where opportunity still existsTimestamps:[00:00] - Introduction to Kevin Plexico & Deltek’s role in GovCon market intelligence[02:00] - Fallout from the recent government shutdowns[06:00] - 2026 spending forecasts and agency-level growth[10:00] - GSA vehicle changes and consolidation trends[13:00] - FAR reforms, modernization, and procurement agility[18:00] - The new intersection of AI, data, and compliance[24:00] - Risk mitigation and maintaining opportunity pipelines[30:00] - How contractors can prepare for 2026 and beyondLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/Links and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Kevin Plexico’s LinkedIn Profile• Deltek Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In our special 'Success After Service' episode, Chelsea sits down with Brian Pultro, Navy Reservist, financial advisor, and advocate for generational wealth and transition readiness.Brian shares his story from post-9/11 Navy service to entrepreneurship, emphasizing lessons on leadership, discipline, and why financial literacy is a continuation of service.On this episode, we discuss:Lessons from a Navy career that shaped his business philosophyHow discipline and accountability became his biggest assetsHaving strategies and financial advice for transitioning service membersBalancing family, reserves, and entrepreneurshipWhy planning 40 years ahead defines financial freedomTimestamps:[01:26] - Joining the Navy after 9/11 and early career lessons[02:43] - Starting a financial advisory business from scratch[04:07] - Leadership and lessons from military experience[08:01] - Transitioning from the Navy to entrepreneurship[12:24] - Reserve service benefits and camaraderie[16:15] - Transition challenges and redefining purpose[22:30] - Mentorship and paying it forward[25:19] - Transition tips for military personnel[28:45] - Industry challenges and aging workforceLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/Links and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileBrian Pultro’s LinkedIn ProfileLPL Financial

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this special cross-collaboration with Tan’s Two Cents, Chelsea sits down with Tan Wilson, President & CEO of Entellect, LLC, to talk about how companies can navigate a GovCon landscape shaped by misinformation, canceled contracts, FAR overhauls, and teaming in 2026.On this episode, we discuss:The rise of #GovConGrifters and why fact-checking is mission criticalCancelled contracts, contract reactivations & morale shockwavesFAR overhaul “fast passes” and what the speed means for the industryWhy teaming is more like Tinder than tradition, baggage, and allPipeline illusions and why 2026 requires ruthless focusTimestamps:[00:00] - Introducing Tan Wilson & Entellect, LLC[02:00] - The rise of GovCon grifters and carnival barkers[05:00] - Fake wins, bad advice, and outright fraud[06:00] - AI hallucinations & fabricated citations in protests[07:00] - Spam bots, inbox noise & authentic connection rules[09:00] - Cancelled contracts, terminated staff & cultural fallout[10:00] - FAR overhauls & administrative shakeups[13:00] - Waste, efficiencies & destabilization in government[18:00] - Show your value or be consolidated[21:00] - Set-asides, DEI & the rise of RFIs[23:00] - Bundling, shrinking industrial base & small biz squeeze[25:00] - Joint ventures & the hot trend in teaming[27:00] - Tinder teaming, baggage & red flags[29:00] - AI as flattery & why human judgment matters[30:00] - Pipelines as lifeblood illusions vs. reality[32:00] - Tools, AI limits & the human in the loop[34:00] - The winners: value clarity, confidence, and strategic partnershipsLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/Links and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Tan Wilson’s LinkedIn Profile• Entellect, LLC Website• Tan’s Two Cents Podcast

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Jena Jones, CEO and Founder of PGT Solutions and the Molly Jones Foundation.Jena shares her journey from Army service to running a veteran-owned small business, securing prime contracts, and learning how to pivot when the market shifts. She also opens up about the Molly Jones Foundation, which is focused on animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and veteran services.On this episode, we discuss:Transitioning from Army service to GovCon entrepreneurshipHow PGT Solutions went from sub to prime contractorThe contract crisis and how she kept her team intactDiversifying beyond VA contracts and into innovationWhy she launched the Molly Jones FoundationTimestamps:[04:53] - Jena’s military background and transition into GovCon[16:19] - Starting PGT Solutions and first international contract in Bangladesh[27:04] - Becoming a prime through novation and re-competes[38:36] - Market instability, contract crisis & retaining staff[45:43] - The Molly Jones Foundation and its three pillars[51:36] - Contact information and future plansLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/Links and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Jena Jones’ LinkedIn Profile• PGT Solutions Website• Molly Jones Foundation Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Robert Fehlen, Managing Principal of Dark Corner Solutions.Robert shares how his defense ventures led to the launch of Mission Cultivate, a discreet and secure social networking platform designed for defense, national security, and industry professionals who are tired of “happy hour networking” and cluttered platforms.On this episode, we discuss:Why authentic connections still drive GovCon successHow Mission Cultivate ensures security and vetted accessWhy traditional networking isn’t working, and what comes nextHow 60,000+ users joined the waitlist through word of mouthTimestamps:[00:00] - Introducing Robert Fehlen and Dark Corner Solutions[01:00] - Launching new platforms across defense and national security[02:00] - Robert’s path into GovCon — family military legacy and entrepreneurship[03:00] - Why Mission Cultivate was created[06:00] - Government participation and growing waitlist of 60,000+[08:00] - Word-of-mouth growth and community management[10:00] - Cutting noise, avoiding spam, and discouraging pitch-heavy interactions[13:00] - Community types: public, private, hidden[15:00] - Surfacing non-SAM.gov opportunities and problem statements[20:00] - Tackling plagiarism and AI-generated content[23:00] - Launch plans, events, and regional expansion[25:00] - Security, vetting, and AWS GovCloud infrastructure[27:00] - Balancing professional and personal conversations in communities[29:00] - White-glove onboarding for organizations and associations[30:00] - Where to connect with Robert🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvxLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Robert Fehlen’s LinkedIn Profile• Mission Cultivate Website• Dark Corner Solutions Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Giles Walger, CEO of OODAx, who transitioned from 20 years in the Marine Corps to founding a startup that helps dual-use tech companies fast-track federal contracting.From interoperability challenges in uniform to helping pre-Series A founders navigate federal markets, Giles shares candid lessons on accelerating acquisition cycles, building strategic partnerships, and supporting warfighters with cutting-edge solutions.On this episode, we discuss:Transitioning from 20 years of MarGiles Walger: From Marine Corps to OODAx & Fast-Tracking Dual-Use Techine Corps service into entrepreneurshipHow OODAx helps pre-Series A companies break into GovCon fasterThe importance of market research, Sources Sought, and RFIsWhy veterans bring unique strengths to entrepreneurship, but need “business language”National security urgency and why peer threats are already hereTimestamps:[02:09] - Giles’ background: Marine Corps to AWS to founding OODAx[04:03] - OODAx’s mission: accelerating contracting for pre-Series A companies[05:00] - Interoperability challenges and navigating acquisition in uniform[12:08] - Transition struggles: avoiding GovCon, then jumping back in[17:25] - Continuous learning: programs like APFIT and acquisition insights[18:34] - Why veterans are ready for entrepreneurship (with a caveat)[22:55] - Industry challenges: compliance, ITAR/EAR, ATOs, and BD gaps[29:08] - National security urgency: peer threats, not “near-peer”[33:04] - Future collaboration and referral partnership with Chelsea🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvxLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Giles Walger’s LinkedIn Profile• OODAx Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Melinda Milheim, founder of Phoenix Canyon and Christopher Zebra International.Melinda shares her unconventional path into government contracting from pizza delivery driver to managing $7 billion in contracts and how an ethics crisis led her to build businesses that prioritize training, integrity, and long-term student support.On this episode, we discuss:From delivering pizzas to handling missile systems and major weapons contractsThe financial reality of leaving government for the private sectorWhy integrity sometimes costs more than money — and why it’s worth itWhy practical GovCon training matters more than theoryHow certifications like CFCM can dramatically increase salariesTimestamps:[07:53] - Melinda’s unconventional entry into GovCon[21:44] - First day trauma and managing $7B in contracts[27:21] - Transitioning to private sector: pay gaps and ethics dilemmas[33:16] - Launching her consulting journey and leaving Moss Adams[38:33] - Building Phoenix Canyon and Christopher Zebra International[45:34] - Resume tips, buzzwords, and certifications for career growth[01:03:29] - Business commitments and student-first philosophy🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvxLinks and Resources:• Chelsea’s LinkedIn Profile• Melinda Milheim’s LinkedIn Profile• Phoenix Canyon Website• Christopher Zebra International Website

Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Al Vega, CEO of Clerco, to discuss the realities of recruiting in government contracting, from proposal staffing to cleared personnel challenges.Al shares why transparency with candidates matters, how to build strong talent benches, and why mission-driven professionals often value national security work more than money. He also explores how AI is reshaping recruiting while human review remains central.On this episode, we discuss:Proposal recruiting vs. active contract recruiting — and how to manage bothThe importance of client intelligence and proactive candidate engagementChallenges of recruiting for Top Secret and above clearancesWhy GovCon culture must adapt to compete with big tech perksAI’s role in recruiting includes useful insights, but with a human touch, which is criticalTimestamps:[03:41] - Introducing Al Vega and Clerco’s recruiting focus[05:07] - Proposal recruiting vs. active contract recruiting[07:23] - Intelligence gathering and collaboration across BD, capture, and recruiting[10:43] - Building talent benches and engaging candidates early[13:20] - Recruiting cleared professionals and unique challenges[15:39] - Mission-driven motivation vs. money-driven candidates[17:55] - GovCon adapting to big tech culture and younger CEOs[23:04] - AI’s role in recruiting and resume detection[28:01] - Human review vs. automation in resume screening[31:08] - LinkedIn sourcing strategies and algorithm optimization[35:02] - Civilianizing resumes for transitioning government employees[37:12] - Recruiter roles clarified — finding talent, not jobs🎧 Listen now on:🔹 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/govcon-unscripted/id1766384482🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NL0kFAvmgECLTJpUZYNHyLike and follow us:🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConUnscriptedUS🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govconunscriptedpodcast/🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/govcon-unscripted/posts/🔹 JOIN OUR #govcon #community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14618490/New to GovCon? Here's a guide for you:https://share.hsforms.com/288nO18bsRCCmdJZL66pClwbzmvxLinks and Resources:Chelsea’s LinkedIn ProfileAl Vega’s LinkedIn ProfileClerco's website link