Shows
Former Fed FridayBeyond the Badge: Venkat Kodumudi on Evolving from TSA to Tech ExecutiveIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, David Blackburn sits down with Venkat Kodumudi, the Chief Technology Officer at Unissant and former senior leader at TSA. Venkat reflects on his nearly decade-long service at DHS, his smooth but eye-opening transition to the private sector, and the lessons learned along the way. With a deep sense of mission and humility, he shares advice for federal employees considering the leap to industry, highlighting the importance of empathy, adaptability, and understanding both government culture and industry innovation.
To connect with Venkat visit him on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Un...2025-06-2013 min
The PeelFind. Match. Win. The Arctas AI platform (built for Government) Is Fueling Billions in Teaming OpportunitiesIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Luke Nascimento, the CEO and founder of Arctas, as they dive into a bold new platform purpose-built to help government leaders tackle one of the toughest parts of their job: market research.
Only 90 days since launch, Arctas is already reshaping how government and industry connect - offering access to thousands of verified contractor profiles, real performance insights, and crowd-sourced industry research to support smarter partner selection.
In this episode, we talk about:
✅ Why market research remains one of the most time-consuming and complex ch...2025-06-1612 min
Former Fed FridayBridging the Gap: Carol Sefret on Federal Acquisition and Vendor RelationsIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire chats with Carol Sefret, a newly retired federal leader who spent 37 years at CMS, going all the way back to when it was HCFA. Carol reflects offers honest, practical advice for vendors hoping to work with the government. She explains why showing up unprepared is a nonstarter, what agencies are really looking for during meetings, and how vendors can stand out in today’s challenging environment.
She talks candidly about the realities of the acquisition process — why there's no magic wand to make things move faster, and how m...2025-06-1331 min
Former Fed FridayPatrick Eager on Career Courage, Contracting Challenges & the Rise of AIIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Hunter Gros sits down with Patrick Eager, a Marine Corps veteran turned government leader and business executive. He is currently the Executive Vice President at Rexley. Patrick’s career spans critical roles in WMD response, federal IT leadership, and business development, offering invaluable insights into navigating both government and private sectors.
From his time in the Marine Corps specializing in nuclear, biological, and chemical threats to his leadership at DHS, TSA, and FDIC, Patrick shares how aligning core values with career choices led him to make bold mov...2025-06-0621 min
Former Fed FridayInside Emerald One: Former VA Exec Kai Miller Talks Strategy, Culture, and Real TalkIn this episode of the Former Fed Friday Podcast, Shelly McGuire sits down with Kai Miller, co-founder and Chief Experience Officer of Emerald One, a woman-owned consulting firm serving federal agencies. With over 15 years in government service, spanning NASA to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Kai brings a rare blend of high-level federal insight and grounded leadership to her work.
Emerald One was born from three former federal executives and their shared thought of wishing they had access to consultants who truly understood the realities of government life. Today, Emerald One delivers strategic consulting tailored to agency...2025-05-3021 min
The PeelPodcast Flashback: What It Really Takes to Win in Federal Health with Nichol Case and Matt SmithIn July 2024, OrangeSlices hosted a Lunch & Learn session. Listen in on this panel as two of the sharpest minds in federal health business development—Nichol Case, CEO of Insight Advisors Federal Consulting, and Matt Smith, President and Owner of Business Acumen Consulting Group—joined me on Orange Slices to break down what it really takes to succeed at CMS.
Nichol brings over 25 years of strategic experience in client engagement, capture, teaming, and one of the most overlooked differentiators in federal contracting - orals coaching. Her expertise in CMS-specific strategies and program alignment is unmatched. Matt contributes more than...2025-05-2824 min
Former Fed FridaySunny Hashmi on Navigating Federal Talent and Technology TransformationIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host David Blackburn talks with Sonny Hashmi, Head of Global Public Sector at Unqork, who highlights the unique value federal employees bring to private sector roles. They excel in deep user research, cross-functional project management, and financial analysis but often struggle to translate these skills clearly to employers. Sunny urges companies to engage with federal talent, identify skill gaps, and invest in their growth, noting their unmatched loyalty, ethics, and mission-driven mindset.
For federal workers transitioning to the private sector, Sonny advises being clear about role expectations, especially the balance b...2025-05-2329 min
Former Fed FridayLessons in Government, Industry, and Agility with Traci WalkerIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Traci Walker, Executive Director of the Digital Services Coalition and founder of Awkward Walker Consulting. Traci brings a fascinating perspective as a former federal contracting officer turned industry bridge-builder, with experience spanning from GSA to the White House and the U.S. Digital Service.
She opens up about lessons learned from the healthcare.gov turnaround and shares insights on navigating the cultural shift from the public to private sector, misconceptions about industry, and how to stay mission-focused even after leaving government service. Traci helps...2025-05-1617 min
Room at the Table: Building Culture by Breaking BarriersProspering Through Change: Women Leaders in Federal Contracting with Shelly McGuireProspering Through Change: Women Leaders in Federal ContractingHow do you prosper through change in the fast-paced world of government contracting? In this impactful episode of Room at the Table, host Betsy Cerulo speaks with Shelly McGuire, founder of Shelly’s Events and Chief Strategy Officer at Orange Slices AI, about navigating uncertainty and growth in the federal contracting space.Shelly shares how her career evolved from education to entrepreneurship, and how she now brings leaders together across the government contracting industry through high-impact events. This conversation explores how women in business—especially those working in f...2025-05-1534 min
Former Fed FridayFrom CMS to Optum: Amy Giardina on Fraud, Funding, and the Future of MedicareIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire welcomes Amy Giardina, former Director at the CMS Division of Payment Models and now VP of Business Development at Optum. Amy brings a rich background from both the public and private sectors, having shaped bundled payment policy at CMS and led geriatric care at Johns Hopkins.
Amy dives into the key healthcare priorities of the current administration—tackling fraud and abuse, increasing drug affordability, and improving beneficiary education and tools for care. She also shares valuable insights from her time at CMMI, discussing the success of the Me...2025-05-0914 min
The PeelCMS Secrets to Success with Raghu Akkapeddi, Bil Westerfield, and Robert HicksIn July 2024, OrangeSlices hosted a Lunch & Learn session. Listen in on this panel as three prominent voices in the CMS contracting space - Raghu Akkapeddi, CEO, Index Analytics, Bil Westerfield, President, Magpie Health Analytics, and moderator Robert Hicks, Principal, TransformIT, share their origin stories, hard-won lessons, and the keys to thriving in one of the most competitive federal markets. From the importance of trust-based partnerships to mission-first delivery, this candid conversation delivers valuable takeaways for any GovCon business aiming to break into or grow within CMS.
Whether you're an emerging contractor or a seasoned player, this episode o...2025-05-0723 min
Former Fed FridayBill Pratt’s Journey Through IT InnovationIn this episode of Former Fed Fridays, Hunter Gross interviews Bill Pratt, an experienced IT leader who shares his journey from the Navy to leading IT transformations at DHS. Bill emphasizes the need for young professionals to enter government roles, learn from retiring employees, and take on leadership positions.
Bill also highlights the necessity of AI in government solutions, particularly at DHS, which has fully embraced AI integration. He plans to focus on AI-driven automation in governance compliance and business development, stressing that AI is key to securing government contracts and driving future innovation.
To c...2025-05-0227 min
Former Fed FridayBreaking Out of the Fed Bubble: Career Transitions with Mike HolmesIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros chats with Mike Holmes, an executive recruiter specializing in helping senior civil servants, military personnel, and federal law enforcement officers transition into the corporate world. Mike shares his personal journey, from retiring as a lieutenant colonel in Army Military Intelligence to founding his own concierge recruiting firm.
Mike breaks down the challenges federal employees face when leaving government service, including identity shifts, unexpected career hurdles, and the importance of realistic expectations. He also offers invaluable advice on preparing for the transition, from starting early and crafting the right...2025-04-2525 min
Former Fed FridayNavigating Careers Between Government and Industry with Ratima KatariaMaking the leap from government to industry—and sometimes back again—can be a complex journey. In this episode of Former Fed Friday, David Blackburn talks with Ratima Kataria, a seasoned growth leader who has navigated both worlds with remarkable success. From her time as Deputy CIO at HRSA to her current role driving strategy for ICF’s Federal Health, Ratima shares invaluable insights on transitioning careers, building a powerful network, and making an impact in both federal and private sectors.
Ratima suggests getting involved with groups like ACT-IAC, AFCEA, and PSC. Whether you're considering a career move or...2025-04-1816 min
Former Fed FridayBeyond Government: Reinventing Your Career with Robert LeahyOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Mike Pereira sits down with Robert Leahy, a retired federal executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in IT strategy, modernization, and operations at major government agencies like NASA, the IRS, and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Now a Strategic Executive Advisor at Accenture Federal Services, Robert shares insights on navigating career transitions, the importance of networking, and how federal employees can prepare for changes in the workforce.
From managing large-scale technology transformations to adjusting to life after government service, Robert offers practical advice for former feds looking...2025-04-1115 min
Former Fed FridayPlanning Your Exit: Retirement, Ethics & Industry Transitions with Monica Padron HarrisThinking about retiring from federal service? Wondering how to transition smoothly into the private sector? On this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire sits down with Monica Padron Harris, a former DHS acquisition expert turned entrepreneur. With over 30 years of experience, Monica shares her journey from government service to launching her own consulting firm, Procurement Pros.
From financial planning and ethics considerations to navigating industry lingo and setting up a business, Monica offers candid insights and practical advice for federal employees contemplating their next move. Plus, hear her take on the current state of government workforce...2025-04-0416 min
Former Fed FridayBill Ashton’s Lifelong Commitment to ServiceFrom the depths of the ocean aboard a Navy submarine to the halls of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Bill Ashton’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. After 23 years in the Navy and 21 years in federal service, Bill dedicated himself to one final mission—ensuring that veterans have access to the benefits and opportunities they deserve.
In this episode, Bill shares his unexpected path from military service to government leadership, his drive to reform veteran support programs, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. With his signature humor and straight-shooting honesty, Bill reveal...2025-03-2836 min
Former Fed FridayLife, Business & Giving Back After Government with Mike McGuireIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Mike McGuire, Director Capture/Business Development - Federal with vTech Solution. From his 30-year career in federal service to embracing the transition into retirement, Mike shares invaluable insights on planning ahead, staying active, and navigating post-retirement finances. Plus, hear about his unique school bus-turned-food truck and how he’s using it to give back to the community.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-03-2114 min
The PeelLeadership, Growth & Giving Back: A Conversation with Kendall HolbrookKendall Holbrook didn’t just climb the corporate ladder—she built it. In this episode, the CEO of Dev Technology Group shares her journey from computer science graduate to leading a top IT services company in the GovCon space. She discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the importance of external engagement as a leader, and how she balances passion and strategy in business and community involvement. Plus, hear about her unexpected stint as a children’s bookstore owner and the leadership lessons it taught her along the way. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!
Learn m...2025-03-2024 min
The PeelThe Future of AI and the Changing Workforce with Ksenia KapoorIn this episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire has a conversation with Ksenia Kapoor, Chief of Staff at Skyward IT Solutions, to explore the intersection of innovation, AI, and government contracting. With a background spanning journalism, tech startups, and the public sector, Ksenia shares insights on bridging the gap between private and public sector operations, the evolving role of AI, and the importance of strategic governance in technology adoption. From Estonia’s cutting-edge digital advancements to the challenges of scaling startups while maintaining mission alignment, this conversation delves into the future of AI in the public sector, workforce sh...2025-03-1822 min
Former Fed FridayTransitioning from Government to Tech with Darryl PeekOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Hunter Gros chats with Darryl Peek, Senior Director for U.S. Public Sector Partnerships at Elastic, to uncover the lessons, challenges, and strategies behind his journey from engineering at Lockheed Martin to pivotal leadership roles at DHS, Salesforce, Google, and beyond.
Darryl shares how he leveraged his government experience, navigated the world of public-private partnerships, and made bold career moves—all while staying true to his mission of driving innovation.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-03-1423 min
The PeelHow Kia Rorie Built a Thriving Woman-Owned Small BusinessEver thought about breaking out on your own and starting a business in the federal space? In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn chats with Kia Rorie, CEO & President of KSQUARED Technology Consulting, to talk about her journey from consultant to entrepreneur. Kia shares how she broke through the glass ceiling, built a thriving woman-owned small business, and navigated the challenges of government contracting. She reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her success, from landing a prime award to securing 8(a) certification and advocating for women in digital services through the Digital WOSB Alliance.
Kia...2025-03-1318 min
The PeelNavigating the Federal Marketplace for Small Businesses with Jeremy WoodAre you a small business navigating the complexities of federal contracting or just curious about building meaningful relationships with government agencies? In this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire welcomes Jeremy Wood, Chief of Enterprise Architecture at the SEC and creator of The Geek Within Podcast. Jeremy shares invaluable advice for small businesses looking to break into the government space, from mastering the bid and proposal process to building credibility through partnerships and incremental growth.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-03-1117 min
Former Fed FridaySucceeding in IT and Business Development with Shannon DillonIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire sits down with Shannon Dillon, Senior Business Development Manager at Leidos and a former federal employee at HHS and FDA, to discuss her 25+ years of experience in IT project management, federal procurement, and business development.
Shannon shares her inspiring journey from managing federal infrastructure budgets to thriving in IT sales and business development. She opens up about the unique challenges women face in the GovCon IT space and offers insightful advice on overcoming them. As a single mom and leader in tech, she reflects on balancing career ambitions...2025-03-0715 min
The PeelAI in Government and Why Data Matters with Mark HeaddIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Mark Headd, Senior Director of Technology at Ad Hoc, to dive into the evolving landscape of AI in government. From the rapid pace of AI innovation to the challenges agencies face with data security, workforce readiness, and vendor partnerships, Mark shares key insights on how government agencies can harness AI effectively without getting locked into outdated technologies.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-03-0616 min
The PeelFrom Navy to Medicine: Kevin Dorrance’s Mission to Revolutionize Patient CareOn this episode, Shelley McGuire chats with Kevin Dorrance, retired Navy veteran and CEO of TransformCare, about fixing what’s broken in healthcare. With over 36 years of experience, including time as Chief of Medicine at Walter Reed, Kevin dives into the challenges of shifting from fee-for-service to value-based care. Learn why he believes true health starts at home, not in the doctor’s office. Discover the power of proactive health, personal responsibility, and population management in transforming outcomes. Plus, get Kevin's insights on how the Defense Health Agency and Veterans Health Administration are uniquely positioned to lead change.
2025-03-0417 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Service to CEO: Mika Cross on Career ReinventionIn this episode, Hunter Gross, Director of Marketing at VTechSolution, explores the incredible career journey of Mika Cross, CEO of Strategy@Work, from military service to federal leadership and finally to entrepreneurship. She shares how she balanced government work with personal ventures, the moment she took the leap into business ownership, and the financial and career strategies that made it possible. Mika discusses the cultural shifts between government and private industry, the assumptions she had to unlearn, and the resources that helped her succeed.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-02-2826 min
The PeelCMMC 2025: What Government Contractors Must Know with Richard TuckerCybersecurity in federal contracting is about to change in a big way. Are you ready?
In this episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Richard Tucker, Senior Vice President at Encompass Consulting, to break down the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and its impact on government contractors. With major updates rolling out in 2025, CMMC compliance is no longer just a Department of Defense requirement—it’s expanding to other federal agencies, making it a critical topic for primes and subcontractors alike.
Richard simplifies what CMMC is, who needs to comply, and the step...2025-02-2516 min
The PeelNavigating Uncertainty in the GovCon M&A Market with Adam McNairIn this episode of Orange Slices, David Blackburn talks with GovCon expert Adam McNair about the major disruptions affecting federal contractors. Adam compares the current M&A market to selling a house before a hurricane—uncertainty has paused many deals. Sellers must decide between lowering prices or delaying sales, while buyers have a unique 12-month window to acquire smaller firms and benefit from cost-saving synergies. Large companies may pursue acquisitions to meet revenue targets.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-02-2126 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Federal Service to Independent Success: Insights from Frank KoniecznyIn this episode of Former Fed Fridays, host Mike Pereira dives into an engaging conversation with Frank Konieczny, a retired Chief Technology Officer for the United States Air Force. With over 40 years of expertise spanning both the military and civilian sectors, Frank shares his journey, challenges, and key insights on transitioning from federal work to private entrepreneurship.
From navigating bureaucracy to launching an independent consulting career, this episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone considering the move.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.
2025-02-2119 min
The PeelNavigating Change and Innovation with Harkcon’s Kevin HarkinsIn this episode of The Peel podcast, David Blackburn has a conversation with Kevin Harkins, CEO of Harkcon, a service-disabled veteran-owned business known for its innovative workforce and performance solutions. Kevin shares insights from his three decades of experience in both the public and private sectors, offering advice on navigating change in the government contracting world. With a new administration in place, Kevin discusses how Harkcon adapts to shifting priorities and how small businesses can thrive during uncertain times.
He also highlights the importance of understanding customer needs and staying nimble. Kevin reflects on the company’s suc...2025-02-1914 min
Former Fed FridayRebranding Yourself After Government with Mark WiggintonTo connect with Mark, visit him on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Focusing on Results by visiting their webpage here.
Check out the ebook mentioned at the end of the episode here.
If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.
2025-02-1423 min
The PeelZenith Awards Preview: A Night of Excellence & Collaboration with Krista YagerIn this special episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire welcomes Krista Yager, VP of Healthcare Accounts at Peraton and outgoing NCMA Woodlawn Chapter President. Together, they dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming Zenith Awards Gala, the impact of government-industry collaboration, and Krista’s new role at Peraton.
From the evolution of the Denim & Diamonds theme to the behind-the-scenes planning of an event that celebrates excellence in GovCon, this conversation is a must-listen for those navigating the intersection of government and industry partnerships. Krista shares insights into the future of healthcare IT, AI-driven government efficiencies, and th...2025-02-1110 min
The PeelLIGER™ and the AI Revolution with Matthew FinneyIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Matthew Finney, Vice President of Generative AI at LMI, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way government agencies operate. They dive into agencies' challenges in adopting AI, from security concerns to cost management, and discuss real-world success stories where AI is already driving efficiency.
Matthew shares how LMI’s secure generative AI platform, LIGER™, is helping agencies streamline processes like acquisitions and market research, cutting down work that used to take weeks into just days. He also explains why flexibility is key in this rapi...2025-02-1017 min
Former Fed FridayKeys to Career Change: Insights for Federal Leaders with Sean KelleyTransitioning from government to industry? Join David Blackburn as he chats with Sean Kelley, Principal and Health Portfolio Executive at Connsci, about navigating the journey from public service to the private sector. With experience as a former CISO at EPA and Deputy CIO at the VA, Sean shares invaluable advice for federal leaders considering a career change. From building community connections to balancing patience with ambition, Sean reveals the keys to a successful transition—and the pitfalls to avoid. Whether you're eyeing a big firm, a small business, or even consulting, this episode is packed with actionable insights to he...2025-02-0712 min
The Geek WithinEp203: Shelley McGuireToday's guest is Shelley McGuire. She is the owner and Events Curator for Shelley's Events, the Chief Strategy Officer for OrangeSlices, a realtor in Florida, and Co-owner of MSS Management, an accounting and wealth management company. On top of all that, Shelley is a former professor of Entrepreneurship, a former special education teacher, and a former Business High School teacher. We talked about how important it is to find a mentor and how it can transform your career.
You can engage Shelley here:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-mcguire-62a12...2025-02-0528 min
Former Fed FridayModernizing government: AI, data, and leadership in 2025 with Jose ArrietaStep into the world of innovation, disruption, and transformation with this episode of Former Fed Friday. Host Shelley McGuire sits down with Jose Arrieta, former HHS CIO and founder of Imagineeer, to discuss the intersection of technology, data, and the future of government operations. Jose shares his perspective on AI’s transformative potential in procurement, the priorities of a new administration, and what the future holds for public service and tech modernization.
2025-01-3114 min
Former Fed FridayLife After Federal Service with Maria RoatMaking the leap from federal service to the private sector is both an exciting and challenging journey. In the debut episode of Former Fed Friday, Mike Pereira, CTO, vTech Solution talks with Maria Roat, a trailblazing IT leader and Navy veteran, to explore her inspiring transition after 42 years of public service. Maria shares her motivation to embrace a new chapter, the steps she took to prepare, and the lessons learned along the way.
2025-01-2418 min
The Last Symptom by Brian BarnettOrange Slice 398: Legitimizing Things You Shouldn't Robs You of PeaceTaken from The Last Symptom podcast S5 Ep 7.
Orange Slices are condensed insights taken from The Last Symptom podcast that have until now only appeared on Locals, YouTube & Rumble. Starting with this episode, I will also begin publishing the audio here.
http://www.thelastsymptom.com
Join our online community at thelastsymptom.locals.com, or by downloading the Locals.com app from the App Store and searching for The Last Symptom by Brian Barnett within. Livestreams there on Mondays.
#disingenuous #genuine #sincere #insincere #innerpeace #conten...2024-06-2808 min
The Geek WithinEp172: Jennifer BonnerToday's guest is Jennifer Bonner. She is the Senior Vice President of Client Delivery at RIVA Solutions. Jenny is a graduate of the ACT-IAC Partners in 2023 leadership development program and was recently honored by OrangeSlices AI as a 2024 Engage Federal Citizen Services Honoree. Jenny and I met through the ACT-IAC fellows network.
You can engage Jennifer here:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-bonner/
The Geek Within can be found on several podcast platforms - https://www.polywork.com/posts/W0IZQ1lu2024-05-2916 min
Breaking the StandardCelebrating Well Rounded Companies & Government Agencies with Elev8In this episode, we have David Blackburn from OrangeSlices AI with us to discuss Elev8. Elev8 was created to celebrate and recognize government contracting companies and agencies that are doing it the right way. David walks us through the criteria to be nominated and considered for Elev8 and shares what he’s seen so far since the creation of this program and what’s to come. To connect with David, find him on LinkedIn To learn more about OrangeSlices and Elev8, click here2024-03-2422 min