podcast
details
.com
Print
Share
Look for any podcast host, guest or anyone
Search
Showing episodes and shows of
Chelsea Meggitt
Shows
GovCon Unscripted
FAR 2.0, Statutory Anchors & What’s Not Changing in Federal Acquisition
What happens when acquisition reform meets legal reality?In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea Roberts is joined by Tom Barrow, counsel at Woods Rogers and a former Army JAG attorney, to dissect the FAR 2.0 rewrite. They unpack what reforms are possible and what’s simply untouchable by executive action.This is the conversation federal contractors need right now to cut through the noise and focus on what really matters. On this episode, we discuss:The critical difference between statutes and regulationsWhat FAR 2.0 can’t touch—competition, payments, and small busines...
2025-07-15
34 min
GovCon Unscripted
Cracking GSA MAS, OASIS+, and Polaris for Small Biz Success
Can one contract vehicle really change how the government buys?In this episode, Chelsea catches up with Katie Helwig, president of Mild Red LLC, to decode the latest from GSA. From MAS and OASIS+ to the emerging Polaris contract. They explore what small businesses need to know now to stay ahead in 2025’s evolving GovCon landscape.On this episode:How centralized procurement is reshaping federal acquisitionWhat small firms need to qualify for OASIS+Why Polaris is set to dominate the IT landscapeTips for using past pe...
2025-07-08
32 min
GovCon Unscripted
BD Tech, AI in GovCon, & Three Smart Pivots for Federal Contractors
In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Chelsea welcomes Alexa Tsui, COO of G2X, to break down how business developers in GovCon can stay ahead, especially with the rise of AI, budget shifts, and changing customer landscapes.On this episode, we explore:G2X’s all-in-one platform for BD professionalsWhy companies need to stop trying to prime everythingHow AI certification is becoming a critical differentiatorWhy your next customer may not be federal at allPreparing for a world where ChatGPT and coding meet GovCon...
2025-07-01
32 min
GovCon Unscripted
Immigration, Tarrifs & The Future of U.S.-Canada Relations
What happens when tariffs, talent migration, and immigration collide at the policy level?In this episode, Chelsea welcomes Andy Semotiuk, U.S. and Canadian immigration attorney, Forbes contributor, and policy expert, to explore how shifting U.S.-Canada dynamics are impacting global trade, innovation, and the human cost of enforcement.We cover:Tariffs and the decline of North American cooperationThe rising role of Canadian contractors in U.S. detention infrastructureWhy top academic talent is quietly leaving the U.S.A controversial vision: North America as...
2025-06-24
35 min
Parabilis Presents: Spilling the Tea on GovCon
Hey GovCon, Get Help!
In this episode, Teresa chats with friend of the show with GovCon experts Chelsea Meggitt and new friend David Neal. Chelsea and David talk about their collaboration on their new book, "Hey GovCon, Get Help!: The Federal Contracting Guide You Didn't Know You Needed", an essential guide for all businesses navigating the complex world of federal contracting. During their time, they talk about the inspirations behind the book, myths and misconceptions of the industry that your book highlights and important is it to have trusted resources amongst other topics related to the book.Episode Timestamps:00:00...
2025-06-20
28 min
GovCon Unscripted
Building Defense Tech That Actually Scales
What does it take to actually build and scale physical innovation in GovCon?In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Callye Keen, CEO of KForm and host of Startup Defense, to explore the real challenges of bringing new defense technology to market from startup myths to manufacturing realities.We cover:🛠️ The hard truths of scaling defense tech📉 Why most SBIR-funded startups never transition💡 What “innovation as a service” actually looks like🤝 Why partnerships (not pitches) win contracts🧠 A smarter approach to requirements developmentTimestamps:[00...
2025-06-17
47 min
The Startup Defense
Navigating Acquisition Changes, Rapid Prototyping, and Collaborative Compositions with Chelsea Meggitt
Callye Keen and Chelsea Roberts (Meggitt) discuss the evolving landscape of the defense industry, particularly for small businesses. Chelsea shares insights on recent changes in government contracting, the importance of rapid prototyping, and the need for small businesses to adapt to new acquisition processes. They also explore the role of Collaborative Compositions in supporting small businesses and the common pitfalls to avoid in government contracting. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Defense Industry and Small Business Opportunities02:00 Recent Changes in the Defense Acquisition Landscape07:20 The Importance of Rapid Prototyping and User Feedback12:45 Navigating Traditional vs. N...
2025-06-11
36 min
GovCon Unscripted
Unlocking GovCon Innovation—OTAs, Dual-Use Tech & the Future of Acquisition
What if reforming the FAR wasn’t just possible—but inevitable?In this episode, Chelsea Roberts sits down with Chip Walter, former Navy pilot and CIA innovation lead turned partner at Marlinspike. Together, they unpack the real impact of the new Executive Order on acquisition reform—and what it means for startups, contracting officers, and the defense tech landscape.On this episode, we discuss:📜 How the new EO challenges legacy contracting models💡 Why OTAs offer more substance than SBIR grants🔍 What makes dual-use technology a national advantage🚀 The agile edge: Ma...
2025-06-10
44 min
GovCon Unscripted
Winning GovCon Proposals in the Age of AI, OTAs & Speed
What if the tools you’re using are actually slowing you down? In this episode, I sit down with Noura Bashshur, Senior Director of Growth at Vultron, to explore how proposal writing is being turned on its head by AI, compressed deadlines, and non-FAR procurement methods.We dive into smarter, faster ways to win—and how contractors must shift from boilerplate compliance to strategic persuasion.On this episode, we cover:🚀 What today’s evaluators actually look for in proposals📚 How to use Noura’s Proposal Strategy Workbook with or without AI...
2025-06-03
38 min
GovCon Unscripted
The Future of SEAD Missions: Clark Haymond on Affordable, Attritable EW Solutions
In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, F-15E Strike Eagle pilot-turned-innovator Clark "Slider" Haymond (COO of DEWM) reveals how his team is solving one of DoD’s biggest training gaps: realistic electronic warfare (EW) at 1/100th the cost.Key Takeaways:🎯 The $15M Training Gap: Why current EW range systems fail pilots (and how DEWM’s Dart fixes it).✈️ From Spark Tank to SBIR: How winning an Air Force "Shark Tank" led to a Phase II SBIR and TRL 9 tech.💡 Attritable ≠ Disposable: The art of building low-cost, high-fidelity threat emitters for mas...
2025-05-27
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
Leveling the GovCon Playing Field with Christine Hopkins
In this episode of GovCon Unscripted, Christine Hopkins—CEO of ASCII and 2025 Alaska Small Business Person of the Year—shares her gritty journey from near-collapse in the oil industry to thriving in federal contracting. Discover how she navigated scams, remote business development from Alaska, and the whiplash of recent policy changes.Key Takeaways:🚨 Scam Alert: The predatory emails and contracts targeting new GovCon entrants (and how to avoid them).🏔️ Remote Hustle: Building federal relationships from Alaska during COVID—and making it stick.📜 Policy Whiplash: Overnight contract mods, scrubbed DEI language, and...
2025-05-20
34 min
GovCon Unscripted
Government Contracting is a Team Sport—And Marketing Leads the Charge
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I’m joined by Stacey Piper, founder and CEO of Piper Strategies. Stacey brings 30+ years of experience in federal contracting—from her early days in the intelligence community to launching her own marketing firm helping government contractors grow.We discuss marketing challenges in GovCon, personal branding, visibility in a crowded market, and why contractors need to shift from “proposal mills” to strategic storytelling.On this episode, we discuss:💡 Why visibility is critical in the federal space🧭 How marketing ca...
2025-05-13
31 min
Lawyers & Mediators International Podcast
EP313 - Demystifying the World of Government Contracting with Chelsea Meggitt of Collaborative Compositions
Join Mac Pierre-Louis as he interviews Chelsea Meggitt about the world of government contracting and how it impacts small businesses. Learn about navigating GovCon and available resources. #governmentcontracting #smallbusiness #govconBLOG POST: https://lmipodcast.com/ep313-demystifying-the-world-of-government-contracting-with-chelsea-meggitt-of-collaborative-compositions/
2025-05-11
23 min
GovCon Unscripted
“Don’t Confuse the Customer!” - GovCon Messaging with David Doerrier
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I'm your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with David Doerrier—GovCon trainer, Army veteran, and public speaking expert.We dive deep into the power of clear communication in the world of federal contracting. David shares his insights on how even the most qualified contractors can lose opportunities if they fail to effectively deliver their message.We talk about:🎤 Why effective communication is a game-changer in GovCon🧠 The power of message alignment in proposal delivery💥 How contractors unintentionally confuse the customer
2025-05-06
31 min
GovCon Unscripted
AI, Emerging Tech & National Security in GovCon with J.L. Hancock
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with JL Hancock—a retired Naval cryptologist and innovation expert with two decades of experience in defense technology.We talk about his work with SEAL teams, innovation funding, overcoming acquisition hurdles, and his pivot into writing techno-thrillers.On this episode, we discuss:🧠 What it takes to innovate within the bureaucracy of the Department of Defense💡 How JL leveraged labs and OTAs to build cutting-edge solutions📚 Why he turned to writing and what inspires...
2025-04-29
52 min
Govcon Giants
266: Game-Changing Executive Order: How to Get Ahead in Government Contracts Now!
On this episode of GovCon Giants, I’m diving deep into one of the biggest shifts we’ve seen in federal contracting in recent years. I sat down with Chelsea Meggitt—federal contracting strategist, author, and someone who knows this space inside and out—to talk about a powerful Executive Order that’s opening up brand-new opportunities for small businesses. If you’re tired of waiting on slow, traditional FAR-based contracting processes, this episode is going to open your eyes. We’re talking fast-track pathways, non-FAR vehicles, and how to position yourself before an RFP ever drops. Chelsea and I...
2025-04-23
31 min
GovCon Unscripted
Navigating Career Transitions with Mark Wigginton
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Mark Wigginton to discuss key insights on how businesses can navigate the complexities of government contracting.We explore:🔍 How to turn chaos into opportunity 💼 Why the top of your resume is your prime real estate 💡 Tools to identify and articulate your strengths 🧠 How mindset and perspective shape career outcomesIn This Episode:00:00 - Chelsea welcomes Mark and introduces his expertise in GovCon05:15: Helping individuals prepare for th...
2025-04-22
33 min
GovCon Unscripted
From Startup to GovCon: Scaling Dual-Use Innovation with Tim Balz
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I'm your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Tim Balz, CEO of Kalogon to discuss key GovCon strategies, industry trends, and the biggest challenges facing government contractors today.We discuss: 🔍 The most pressing challenges GovCon businesses face in today’s market💡 Strategies for navigating government contracts successfully🚀 Key insights on business growth and sustainability in the federal spaceIn This Episode:[00:00] - Chelsea introduces Tim and his experience in the GovCon industry[05:15] - Common pit...
2025-04-15
32 min
GovCon Unscripted
Breaking Down GovCon's Biggest Pitfalls in Our New Book 'Hey, GovCon, Get Help!
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I'm your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with my co-author and GovCon expert, David Neal, to discuss our new book, Hey, GovCon, Get Help! —a survival guide for government contractors.We cover:🔍 The pitfalls and scams in federal contracting💡 Why success requires more than a "one-trick pony"🚀 How to orient yourself in the GovCon marketIf you're serious about surviving—and thriving—in the GovCon space, this is the must-have guide everyone’s been waiting for.In This Episode:
2025-04-09
16 min
GovClose | Start Winning Government Contracts
SECDEF Just Fast-Tracked Small Business Contracts | OTA Explained (With Chelsea Meggitt)
Other Transaction Authority is a faster way for the US government to make purchases. Traditionalized sparingly, SECDEF released a memo pushing OTAs and CSOs to streamline government contracting for small businesses (for certain areas) Is this is a huge opportunity for non-traditional companies looking to break into the federal space without the hassle of traditional FAR contracts.Start your career in government contracting here: https://www.govclose.comTrain your sales team to close government contracts here: ...
2025-04-02
53 min
GovCon Unscripted
The Future of 911 Services with Barry Furey
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Barry Furey, a public safety expert and 911 consultant with over 55 years of experience in emergency response and public safety communications.We explore:🚨 How different government agencies manage 911 services and emergency response.🔑 Why staffing shortages are the biggest crisis facing 911 centers today.📡 How new technologies—like video calls and text-to-911—impact public safety.If you want to understand the evolving landscape of 911 services and how innovation is shaping the future of emergency respo...
2025-04-01
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
Small Business Success in GovCon with Aubrey Gainfort
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Aubrey Gainfort, Founder and Host of Breaking the Standard Podcast, a platform dedicated to helping small businesses access the right information to succeed in federal contracting—without costly misinformation.We explore:Why she created Breaking the Standard to provide small businesses with free, accurate GovCon insights.How small businesses can find the right resources and avoid predatory GovCon “experts.”The biggest challenges facing small business contractors and how to overcome them.If you're a small business looking...
2025-03-25
32 min
GovCon Unscripted
Unlocking Defense Innovation with Nautilus – Featuring Graham Plaster
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Graham Plaster, Director of Nautilus, to discuss how emerging technologies, OTAs, and defense innovation are shaping the future of GovCon.We explore:The role of Nautilus in supporting the Naval Surface Warfare Division Dahlgren.Why only 0.2% of small businesses participate in the federal industrial base—and how to change that.How Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) are creating new opportunities in GovCon.If you’re a small business, tech innovator, or contractor looking to break into defense opport...
2025-03-18
22 min
GovCon Unscripted
Mastering Micro Engagement Magic with Judy Bradt
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down for another episode with Judy Bradt, CEO of Summit Insight, to dive into her groundbreaking Micro Engagement Magic approach for federal contracting.We explore:How micro engagements act as “dopamine” for relationship-building in GovCon.The five love languages adapted for government contracting: Touch, Time, Tasks, Thanks, and Talk.How the ‘Double Tap Technique’ and consistent follow-ups can help win contracts.If you’re looking to turn connections into contracts with proven relationship-building strategies, this episode is packed with actiona...
2025-03-11
33 min
GovCon Unscripted
Winning More GovCon Contracts with Judy Bradt
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Judy Bradt, CEO of Summit Insight, to discuss her powerful Players & Layers™ methodology, a proven framework that helps businesses win more government contracts by building the right relationships.We explore:The five layers of players in every federal acquisition—and why relationships matter.Why small businesses struggle to connect with decision-makers and how to fix it.How to create a GovCon sales strategy based on real relationships—not just proposals.If you’re looking to...
2025-03-04
33 min
GovCon Unscripted
Strategic Collaboration in GovCon with Katie Roberts of RPR Strategies
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Katie Roberts, Founder and CEO of RPR Strategies. With extensive experience in both the federal government and Fortune 500 companies, Katie shares how she built a company that bridges the gap between the public and private sectors to drive success in government contracting.We discuss:How businesses can leverage strategic partnerships to succeed in the GovCon space.The challenges and opportunities in adapting private-sector strategies for government clients.Why flexibility and adaptability are critical in today's evolving federal la...
2025-02-25
33 min
GovCon Unscripted
Managing Innovation in GovCon with Todd Packer & Harlan Bennett
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Todd Packer, Principal Consultant at Todd Packer Associates, and Harlan Bennett, CEO of Ever Evolving Inc., to discuss innovation management and how businesses can structure their processes to stay competitive in GovCon.We dive into:Why innovation needs structure and how the ISO 56000 framework helps.The biggest mistakes businesses make when trying to scale innovation.How small businesses can balance agility with repeatable processes.If you're looking to streamline innovation, drive efficiency, and create a sustainable Go...
2025-02-18
58 min
Superficial Podcast
Government Contracting 101 | Chelsea Meggitt | Ep 37
Chelsea Meggitt is a government contractor. 'Arms Dealer' is usually what comes to mind when one thinks of a government contractor, you're not wrong, but there's a lot more to it.
2025-02-13
22 min
GovCon Unscripted
Mergers & Acquisitions in GovCon: Insights from Sharon Heaton
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Sharon Heaton, CEO of SBLiftoff, a leading M&A advisory firm specializing in government contracting.We take a deep dive into GovCon Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) and explore:The key factors that determine the value of a government contracting business.What buyers look for when acquiring a GovCon company.How the new SBA rule changes will impact backlog and set-aside contract sales.If you’re a GovCon business owner thinking about your exit stra...
2025-02-11
38 min
GovCon Unscripted
Mastering SBA Certifications with Dana Bonsell
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Dana Bonsell, an SBA certification expert and 8(a) guru. With over a decade of experience helping small businesses secure critical certifications like 8(a), HUBZone, and WOSB, Dana shares her wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the complex and rewarding world of SBA certifications.In this episode, we discuss:Key differences between the 8(a) program and other SBA certifications.The social and economic disadvantage narrative required for 8(a) applications.Common pitfalls and how to avoid delays in th...
2025-02-04
28 min
GovCon Unscripted
How AFCEA Supports Emerging Talent in Cyber and IT with Chris Bennett
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Chris Bennett, Director of Talent Acquisition at NTI and Vice President of Programs for the AFCEA Alamo Chapter. Chris shares his inspiring journey from a college football player to a leader in the federal contracting space, with no prior IT or military background.We explore the role of AFCEA in fostering collaboration between government, industry, and academia, and discuss:How AFCEA Alamo’s events connect transitioning military members, students, and professionals with career opportunities.The value of netw...
2025-01-28
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
Breaking Down Cybersecurity Requirements in GovCon with Fernando Machado
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Fernando Machado, Managing Principal and CISO of CyberSec Investments. Fernando is an authorized CMMC third-party assessor and a LEED Certified CMMC Assessor, bringing his expertise to unpack the complexities of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program.We discuss the evolving cybersecurity landscape, covering everything from DFARS clauses and self-assessments to the importance of third-party certifications. Fernando shares actionable advice for contractors navigating these changes, offering insights into preparation, compliance costs, and tools to streamline th...
2025-01-21
29 min
GovCon Unscripted
Connecting the Dots: Andy Kirkpatrick on GSA, Small Business, and Government Contracting
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Andy Kirkpatrick, GSA’s “professional dot connector” and program analyst for the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) in Professional Services and Human Capital (PSHC). Andy shares his mission to bridge the gap between government agencies and small businesses, making it easier for companies to navigate the complexities of government contracting.We delve into how Andy’s listening events, one-on-one consultations, and proactive approach to engagement are helping businesses get found, compete effectively, and make the most of their GSA schedules...
2025-01-14
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
Supporting Small Business Innovation at Army Futures Command
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! I’m your host, Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode, I sit down with Aubrey Lavitoria, the Small Business Programs Director at Army Futures Command (AFC), to explore how the Army is driving innovation and breaking barriers to help small businesses thrive. Aubrey shares his journey from the Navy to Army Futures, highlighting the command’s unconventional approach to engaging non-traditional businesses and fostering public-private partnerships.We dive into AFC’s unique position as a non-procuring activity, the importance of human-machine integration, and how events like Vertex bring together industry, academia, and soldie...
2025-01-07
28 min
GovCon Unscripted
Getting Through the 'Valley of Death' in Government Contracting
I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and welcome back to GovCon Unscripted. In this episode, I welcome Paul Wertz, a seasoned veteran of the world of government contracting and small business innovation. He joins me to share insights from his career at AT&T and how he came to found SherpaWerks, a company engaged in supporting federal initiatives and partnering with international businesses. We discuss some of the challenges that small businesses tend to face when transitioning from research and development to commercialization, which Paul calls the “Valley of Death.”Paul’s experiences shed some light on the co...
2024-12-31
40 min
GovCon Unscripted
Avoiding Red Flags, Building Trust, and Protecting Your Business
Thank you, as always, for tuning in to GovCon Unscripted. I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and in this episode of the podcast, I am excited to be welcoming back two familiar voices to the show, David Neal (of David Neal Consulting) and Shauna Weatherly (of FedSubK)! Join us as the three of us dig deep into some unsettling developments within the government contracting industry, discussing the challenges that come with content theft, unqualified advice, and unethical practices. Shauna shares her experience of seeing her insights plagiarized by others in the field, including a well-known company that used her...
2024-12-24
32 min
GovCon Unscripted
No Shortcuts, Only Trust
Thank you, as always, for tuning in to GovCon Unscripted. I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and thanks for tuning back into GovCon Unscripted! In this episode, I sit down with Shauna Weatherly, the founder of FedSubK, to discuss her mission to empower small businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the world of federal contracting!With over 35 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, Shauna’s journey began as a military spouse navigating HR and budget roles before finding her passion in acquisition and contracting, and via a series of...
2024-12-17
35 min
GovCon Unscripted
From Army Intelligence to Entrepreneurial Success
Thank you, as always, for tuning in to GovCon Unscripted! I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and I am thrilled to have Kati Hippleheuser, the CEO of Seaside Innovations, on the show to explore her inspiring journey from Army intelligence officer to entrepreneur. Kati shares how her military background shaped her leadership skills, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit, fueling her transition into the world of government contracting and professional services!Listen in as she opens up about her early days, from selling lemonade as an ambitious eight-year-old to co-founding a t-shirt business after leaving the Army. She reflects...
2024-12-10
31 min
GovCon Unscripted
Leveraging APEX Accelerators
Join me, your host Chelsea Meggitt, for this episode as I discuss the nuances of government contracting with two very insightful guests - Todd Packer and Scot Loveland! Todd, a small business owner and principal consultant of Todd Packer and Associates, has actually been on the show before and shares his journey through the complex federal marketplace. His story involves overcoming the daunting challenges of government registration and leveraging resources like Apex Accelerators, and he candidly talks about the immense value that these services, including one-on-one advising and specialized training, have added to his business by simplifying opportunities for...
2024-12-02
36 min
GovCon Unscripted
How Relationships Scale Your Business
Thank you, as always, for tuning in to GovCon Unscripted. I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and today, I am happy to welcome Brian Kent to the show. Brian is a retired military officer and seasoned entrepreneur who now serves as a consultant, helping companies in the defense and federal contracting sectors, along with some B2B enterprises, to scale effectively.Brian discusses the complexities of helping organizations by focusing on the entire business process. Rather than isolating departments like sales, he looks at the company as a whole, integrating operations, recruiting, and finance to facilitate success...
2024-11-26
37 min
GovCon Unscripted
Navigating FPDS for Government Contracting
I, your host Chelsea Meggitt, welcome Todd Packer, a consultant dedicated to innovation, as we discuss the intricate world of federal awards and government contracting. Todd unveils strategies for leveraging federally funded resources, emphasizing the value of small business centers, accelerators, and women's business centers to navigate complex government landscapes without hefty service fees.Throughout our conversation, Todd talks about the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) – a powerful but sometimes overwhelming tool for understanding procurement awards. He offers tips on using FPDS for business development, sharing advice on navigating it to find detailed contract information. While FPDS ca...
2024-11-19
54 min
GovCon Unscripted
Navigating GovCon via Strategic Collaboration and Teamwork
Thank you, as always, for tuning in to GovCon Unscripted. I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and if you heard the very first episode of the show, then you likely remember today’s guest, David Neal of David Neal Consulting. David is a true game-changer in the world of government contracting, and you might remember him as someone who has been helping small, economically disadvantaged businesses enter the federal government marketplace for years.In our conversation today, we discuss the idea of collaboration and team effort, touching upon how vital it is for success, especially when working wi...
2024-11-12
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
Beyond the GSA Schedule: Building Relationships in Government Contracting
This week, I, your host Chelsea Meggitt, am excited to welcome Jennifer Schaus of JSchaus & Associates to the show! Jennifer's ventures offer everything from assisting with market analysis reports and crafting go-to-market plans, to proposal writing and GSA schedule support, ensuring post-award compliance. If you're a company selling to, or working within, the government contracting space, Jennifer’s networking events and free webinars are an invaluable resource! Tune in as she highlights the breadth of expertise shared in their sessions, particularly through their library of over 700 government contracting webinars available on YouTube!During our conversation, Jennifer and I...
2024-11-05
32 min
GovCon Unscripted
From Small Scale to Big Wins: GovCon Growth Strategies with Shirley Collier
Hello, this is Chelsea Meggitt, and I'm excited to discuss a topic that is fundamental to scaling in the federal contracting space. Shirley Collier, president and founder of Scale2Market and a federal business development consultant, will be joining me. Shirley provides a wealth of experience, having created strategic playbooks that have helped tiny GovCons grow from humble beginnings to major market competitors.Shirley delves into the components of these strategic playbooks, which include market understanding, refining internal procedures, and honing the articulation of a company's value proposition. She enthusiastically explains how these tools are designed to...
2024-10-29
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
Success Through Relationship-Building
It's, as always, your host Chelsea Meggitt, and this week, I am so excited to shift gears and share my insightful conversation with Judy Bradt, the CEO of Summit Insight, and a 36-year veteran in federal government contracting. Judy has an impressive track record, including helping businesses secure millions in federal contracts and authoring the Amazon bestseller, Government Contracts Made Easier.Listen in as, during our conversation, Judy draws parallels between personal and professional proposals. Judy emphasizes the importance of understanding the dynamics in federal contracting - it's all about creating the right relationships before making proposals...
2024-10-22
34 min
GovCon Unscripted
The Power of Networking and of LinkedIn
I had the pleasure in this episode of speaking with Mark Amtower of Amtower & Company. Mark is an expert in government marketing and joins me in this episode of GovCon Unscripted to talk about the complexities of building relationships within the government contracting space. He shares his fascinating journey, starting from his early days as a telemarketer to launching his own firm focused on government marketing in 1985. He discusses the nuances of government sales, stressing that it’s a relationship-driven market where understanding the dynamics of the buying process is absolutely essential for success!Mark provides valuable in...
2024-10-15
30 min
GovCon Unscripted
How to Shine When Developing Your Proposal
I’m your host Chelsea Meggitt, and I am so thrilled to be sitting down for a talk with Kirsten Sandlin of RFPrepared. Kirsten truly has a wealth of experience in guiding small business government contractors through the often daunting world of proposal development. Listen as Kirsten shares her journey, starting from her early days in sales and marketing for a small electrical firm, where she first encountered federal RFPs and quickly discovered the challenges many small businesses face in this space.We also discuss the importance of having a solid foundation of documents ready before responding to...
2024-10-08
36 min
GovCon Unscripted
The Impacts of New Rules & Compliance on Small Businesses (Larry Allen)
I am, as always, your host Chelsea Meggitt, and I am happy to be bringing to you my enlightening and insightful conversation with Larry Allen of Allen Federal Business Partners! Larry joins me to talk about the rapidly evolving world of government contracting, bringing his wealth of experience helping businesses of all sizes navigate the complexities of federal compliance. If you're a small business owner, you will definitely want to pay close attention to this episode and maybe even take some notes because Larry unpacks some critical changes in small business contracting rules and how these could impact your...
2024-10-01
29 min
GovCon Unscripted
Insights for Small Businesses Working with the DOD
I, your host Chelsea, am very excited to be bringing this episode with Trish Martinelli to you! Trish is the CEO of The Difference LLC and a defense industry expert with more than twenty years of experience in uniform and in the private sector. Listen in as she walks us through her unique perspective on some of the challenges that small businesses face when engaging with the Department of Defense.One of several standout topics that we explore is how small businesses, from startups to more established companies, can navigate the often complex world of defense contracts...
2024-09-24
29 min
GovCon Unscripted
Overcoming Challenges in Defense Contracting
I am really excited to be bringing you this week’s episode of GovCon Unscripted featuring a truly remarkable guest, Stephanie Hutch, CEO & President of Makai Defense and founder of Kekoa Foundation, a nonprofit in Hawaii. Listen as Stephanie shares her incredible journey from growing up in a military family to building a successful defense contracting company.Throughout our conversation, Stephanie dives into the early challenges of starting Makai Defense, including securing government contracts and overcoming the challenging obstacles of a startup. With her background rooted in contracting through her parents' work and her own experiences, she re...
2024-09-17
33 min
GovCon Unscripted
From Funding to Growth: Essential Strategies for Small Business Contractors
Welcome back to GovCon Unscripted! For this episode, I am so thrilled to welcome Teresa Moon of Parabilis! Teresa is a passionate advocate for small businesses that are navigating the intricate world of federal contracting, and her insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by small contractors are nothing short of invaluable.Join us as we dive deep into the nuances of funding and financial strategy in the federal contracting space, with Teresa sharing her unique perspective on the importance of starting financial conversations early to avoid pitfalls and ensure sustainable growth. We also discuss the common...
2024-09-10
31 min
GovCon Unscripted
Small Business Strategies for Pursuing Government Contracts
Thanks for tuning in to GovCon, a podcast in which we dive into the unfiltered, unscripted stories and strategies from all over the world of government contracting. I am your host Chelsea Meggitt, and I hope that you will join this journey as I (along with guests) explore how to navigate, thrive, and win in this complex but lucrative industry!For the introductory episode, I am joined by David Neal, a true advocate for small businesses in the government contracting world. Listen in as we dive into a fascinating discussion about the critical role which small businesses...
2024-09-03
29 min
Parabilis Presents: Spilling the Tea on GovCon
Get in the Know on "The Collab" with Teresa Moon and Chelsea Meggitt
Ever been curious about "The Collab"? Well Teresa and this episodes guest, Chelsea Meggitt, CEO of Collaborative Compositions, have everything you need to know! Collaborative Compositions LLC (C2) provides consulting services that enable small and mid-size businesses to find, bid, win, and manage contracts in both the government contracting and commercial sectors. During their discussion, Chelsea shares what exactly "The Collab" is, why she decided to launch it and how it can help businesses she works with. She wraps up the discussion with a preview of what's on the horizon for "The Collab" and how to stay in the...
2023-06-26
23 min
Parabilis Presents: Spilling the Tea on GovCon
Small Business Are A Big Deal
In this episode, Teresa sits down with new friend and business partner Chelsea Meggitt, CEO of Collaborative Compositions. Chelsea shares some insight on her Bloomberg article regarding how to maximize your bid options with small businesses. They also discuss how small businesses present a lower risk when engaging on contract opportunities with a larger prime, why are small businesses a targeted solution for these opportunities, and how can small businesses provide a larger prime with access to new markets? They also touch on why should a prime look at innovation from a small or newer contractor? Lots of great in...
2022-09-19
20 min
govmates NextGen
It's Conference Season
This week Meg is joined by Conference Guru, Chelsea Meggitt, to discuss best practices for getting the most out of your conference attendance this season! Connect with Chelsea here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseameggitt
2022-09-19
34 min