Shows
GovCon Executive SliceNick Marchand on AI, Capital, and the Future of GovCon ExecutionThe federal market is entering a new phase. Not because of a single technology shift, but because the underlying model for how innovation is funded, owned, and delivered is being challenged.
In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Nick Marchand, Operating Partner at Pleasant Land, for a conversation that moves well beyond the usual discussion of modernization and AI.
Nick operates at the intersection of investment, strategy, and mission execution. In his role, he helps shape portfolio strategy and market positioning to drive long-term enterprise value across technology-enabled services. His work spans identifying scalable...
2026-04-2929 min
GovCon Executive SliceCEO Perspectives: Execution, Cyber, and Digital Delivery with Jessica Morris, Al Sowers, and Colin CorlettAs pressure builds across the federal market, the difference between companies that are growing and those that are falling behind is becoming clearer. Execution.
That was the center of this OrangeSlices CEO Perspectives conversation, bringing together three CEOs who are operating in some of the most critical areas of today’s GovCon landscape.
Jessica Morris of Pluribus Digital is helping reshape how government delivers services through modern digital products. Al Sowers of OneZero Solutions is leading in high-stakes cybersecurity and enterprise infrastructure. And Colin Corlett of Excentium is guiding agencies through the increasingly complex world of clou...
2026-04-2846 min
GovCon Executive SliceDelivering Rural Health Transformation Where It Matters Most. Yael Harris and Laurel Health Advisors
Healthcare in this country doesn’t have a shortage of ideas. It has a shortage of execution, especially in the places that need it most.
Rural communities, underserved populations, and systems that still struggle to connect. The challenges are well known. What’s less clear is who’s actually turning insight into impact, and what that really looks like in practice. This conversation gets into that.
Dr. Yael Harris, founder of Laurel Health Advisors, brings a perspective shaped by more than 16 years inside the Department of Health and Human Services, with leadership roles spanning CMS, ONC, H...
2026-04-2415 min
Former Fed FridayAI, Oversight, and Blind Spots: Rethinking Program Integrity with J29’s Ashley Badami Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, the conversation highlights Ashley Badami’s transition from CMS leadership into industry and her continued focus on program integrity with J29.
Through a series of targeted questions, the hosts explore her perspective on AI’s role in detecting fraud, waste, and abuse, where current policies fall short, and what blind spots still exist in the system. They also ask her to weigh in on the effectiveness of different oversight approaches, prior authorization, prepayment, and postpayment review, and how each fits into the broader strategy.
The discussion centers on Ashl...
2026-04-2414 min
GovCon Executive SliceThree CEOs. Three SDVOSBs. Kentro, Ibility, and LMR Redefining Federal PerformanceThe federal market is at a turning point. The bar is higher, the pace is faster, and the companies breaking through are the ones closest to the mission, built to move, built to adapt, and built to deliver.
This episode of our CEO Perspectives series, part of the OrangeSlices community, brings together three CEOs leading Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) that are operating at that level.
Pinakin Patel, Kentro. Innovation-driven. Design thinking at the core. A culture of continuous improvement helping agencies cut through complexity and execute with clarity.
Danielle Krakora, Ibility / Tribility. People-first leadership. Mission-focused...
2026-04-2137 min
GovCon Executive SliceWhy FCL Timelines Slip. And What High Performers Do Differently. ISI
Most FCL delays are not caused by the system. They are caused by how companies prepare for it. Small gaps in documentation, unclear internal ownership, and fragmented workflows create friction that compounds over time. By the time it becomes visible, timelines have already slipped and contract opportunities are at risk.
In this episode, Cate Pearson, President of FSO and Clearance Services at ISI, brings a front line view into where and why those breakdowns happen. Drawing on experience supporting hundreds of defense contractors, she unpacks what separates organizations that move through the FCL process with predictability from those...
2026-04-1716 min
Former Fed FridayInside Federal IT Modernization with Larry Bafundo Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros and Shelley McGuire sit down with Larry Bafundo, founder of Commonwealth Digital and a longtime leader in civic technology, government innovation, and digital service design. With more than a decade of experience across government, nonprofits, and the private sector, including roles as an SES-level leader, product leader at 18F and Code for America, and advisor to Fortune 100 companies, Larry brings deep expertise in digital strategy, human-centered design, and public-sector technology transformation. His career highlights include launching and designing Los Angeles County’s new voting system in 2016 and partnering with leading de...
2026-04-1021 min
GovCon Executive SliceBuilding Again: Scaling Inadev with Manish AgarwalWhat happens when a proven builder steps back into the arena and puts his own conviction behind the bet?
Manish Agarwal has done it before. As a founding member and President of Attain, he helped build the company into one of the most respected firms in the GovCon market, driving significant growth and ultimately helping lead it through a successful acquisition in 2021. Then he stepped away for more than five years.
Now he is back. Not just as CEO of Inadev, but as an investor in its future. A move that indicates more than a l...
2026-04-0118 min
GovCon Executive SliceEveryone Builds JVs. Few Win Like This. Inside Alpha Omega and OneZero’s $160M Coast Guard Cyber AwardWinning the recompete is one thing. Proving a joint venture can operate as one and earn the right to stay is something else entirely.
In this episode, we hear from two leaders who have seen firsthand what it actually takes to make that happen.
Just months removed from securing a $160 million U.S. Coast Guard IDIQ, a high-stakes recompete that reinforces both trust and performance at scale, Eric Laychock of Alpha Omega and Bob Burnett of OneZero Solutions pull back the curtain on how OneOmega operated as a truly integrated team when it mattered most.
2026-03-3131 min
Former Fed FridayBetter Solutions Start with Better Questions with Merri-Ellen James Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros and Shelley McGuire welcomes Merri-Ellen James, former CMS leader and now Client Relations Executive at RELI Group who shares insights shaped by more than two decades leading complex healthcare programs, technology initiatives, and fraud prevention efforts.
Drawing on her experience across government and industry, she unpacks how effective problem-solving starts with strong communication, deep understanding of the environment, and taking the time to identify what you don’t know before jumping to solutions. The conversation explores the shift from federal to industry perspectives, the importance of aligning solutions wi...
2026-03-2721 min
GovCon Executive SliceCEO Perspectives: How GovCon Leaders Are Adapting with Leah Sanders, Naveen Krishnamurthy, and Tim BorchertOrangeSlices recently hosted a new episode in our CEO Perspectives podcast series, bringing together three exceptional leaders from across the GovCon community for a candid conversation about what it takes to compete and lead in today’s evolving federal market.
Joining the discussion were Leah Sanders, CEO of D&G Solutions, Naveen Krishnamurthy, CEO of RIVA Solutions, and Tim Borchert, CEO of Tria Federal. Each of these organizations was recently recognized as a 2026 Elev8[X] finalist, emerging from a pool of more than 1,200 companies nominated and evaluated across the federal contracting ecosystem.
These are companies that have built strong...
2026-03-2443 min
GovCon Executive SliceCEO Perspectives: How GovCon Leaders Are AdaptingOrangeSlices recently hosted a new episode in our CEO Perspectives podcast series, bringing together three exceptional leaders from across the GovCon community for a candid conversation about what it takes to compete and lead in today’s evolving federal market.
Joining the discussion were Leah Sanders, CEO of D&G Solutions, Naveen Krishnamurthy, CEO of RIVA Solutions, and Tim Borchert, CEO of Tria Federal. Each of these organizations was recently recognized as a 2026 Elev8[X] finalist, emerging from a pool of more than 1,200 companies nominated and evaluated across the federal contracting ecosystem.
These are companies that have...
2026-03-1943 min
Former Fed FridayThe Hidden Mechanics of Federal Acquisition with Mahesh Choksi Sponsored by vTech SolutionMahesh Choksi joins the Former Fed Friday podcast with Shelley McGuire to share insights from more than two decades of experience driving procurement transformation and technology modernization across federal health agencies, including FDA, CDC, NIH, and CMS. Drawing on his time leading high-stakes initiatives and enterprise acquisition frameworks at HHS agencies, Mahesh discusses what contractors often misunderstand about how federal acquisition decisions are actually made—highlighting the internal processes, program office dynamics, and timing of engagement that shape opportunities long before an RFP is released.
The conversation explores emerging acquisition trends across federal health organizations and where th...
2026-03-1330 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovDash, Agentic AI, and the Bold Future of GovCon. A Conversation with Sean DohertyFresh off a breakout year and a $30M Series B raise, Sean Doherty joins David Blackburn for a timely conversation about the future of AI in government contracting.
As CEO of GovDash, Sean has helped scale the company from an AI native business development tool into a full scale, AI driven platform supporting capture, proposal, pricing, and contract workflows across nearly 200 contractors, including firms inside the top 100 federal market. Revenue surged 16x. The team expanded rapidly. FedRAMP Moderate Equivalency was achieved. And customers collectively won more than $5B in contracts in 2025.
In this episode, Sean s...
2026-03-0429 min
Former Fed FridayStop Chasing Shiny Objects: Winning in the New GovCon Era with Jaime Gracia Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros and Shelley McGuire have a conversation with Jaime Gracia, former Federal Procurement Executive at the Department of State and now director at The Wolverine Group. He offers a look at what’s really changing in federal acquisition.
With all the buzz around AI, FAR 2.0, and procurement reform, Jaime separates hype from reality. He explains why outcome-based contracting is gaining traction, but why most agencies won’t transform overnight. He dives into the gap between policy and execution, the continued influence of risk aversion, and the operational strain facing today’s a...
2026-02-2735 min
GovCon Executive SliceThe Discipline Behind FHAS with Jim BobeckOn this episode of GovCon Executive Slice, Shelley McGuire chats with Jim Bobeck, CEO of FHAS Inc., shares how a 30-year-old company has remained a trusted small business in the federal healthcare space while navigating constant change in government contracting.
An attorney by background and a longtime leader at FHAS, Jim explains how the company built its reputation around a clear niche, medical legal reviews and coverage determinations, and a disciplined, repeatable process that delivers measurable outcomes. In today’s environment, where agencies face increased scrutiny, regulatory complexity, and a shift toward firm-fixed-price contracts, he emphasizes that th...
2026-02-2314 min
Former Fed FridayStill Serving the CMS Mission with Melissa Moreno Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire welcomes Melissa Moreno, co-founder and principal of Medicare Knowledge Partners (MKP) and a longtime former CMS leader. After more than 15 years at CMS, spanning regulatory work, plan engagement, and agency-wide communications and training, Melissa shares how her deep institutional knowledge shaped her decision to launch MKP and continue serving the CMS mission from outside government.
The conversation explores what it really means to transition from federal service into the contracting world, why former feds play a critical role in helping contractors navigate CMS programs, and how insider perspective...
2026-02-1316 min
GovCon Executive SliceShowing Up With Intention to GovCon Events with Stacey PiperOn this episode of GovCon Executive Slice, David Blackburn welcomes Stacey Piper, Founder and CEO Piper Strategies and host of the Branding the Beltway podcast, to talk about what it really takes to stand out at GovCon events. The conversation digs into how companies show up, get noticed, and leave a lasting impression in crowded rooms.
Stacey challenges the idea that branding at events starts and ends with logoed shirts and booths, emphasizing that personal presence is often the most powerful brand touchpoint. The discussion explores how intentional details, individuality, and coordination across teams can elevate visibility...
2026-02-0906 min
GovCon Executive SliceRunning the Full-Court Press on Growth with Krystn Macomber of Summit Strategy
In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Krystn Macomber, Founder and CEO of Summit Strategy and one of the most respected voices in GovCon growth. Krystn has spent more than twenty years transforming marketing, business development, and proposal teams into true revenue engines. She has partnered with companies from early stage to global scale, building the systems, processes, and brand alignment they need to stop reacting and start winning. She leads Summit Strategy’s work as a win studio for growth-obsessed teams while giving back as a mentor and industry leader across major organizations. Krystn is also a 2026 Engage 150 ho...
2026-02-0217 min
Former Fed FridayContinuing the Mission: Kelly Murray on Critical Infrastructure and Risk Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, hosts Hunter Gros sits down with Kelly Murray, former Associate Director for Chemical Security at the Department of Homeland Security and current President of Resilience and Risk Solutions, as well as a Principal at Deepwater Point & Associates. Kelly reflects on a career that spanned decades in homeland security, critical infrastructure protection, and public–private partnership, including her leadership of the globally recognized Chemical Facility Antiterrorism Standards program.
The conversation explores what drew Kelly into federal service, how her career evolved from the private sector into government leadership, and what motivated he...
2026-01-3020 min
GovCon Executive SliceA New Chapter at Red Team Consulting. Blake Harvey on Where GovCon Is HeadedIn this conversation, David Blackburn is joined by Blake Harvey, the newly announced President of Red Team Consulting, one of the most trusted institutions in the GovCon market. Blake has been with Red Team since 2018, rising through the ranks and helping shape how contractors approach business development, capture, and long-term growth.
Red Team Consulting has been a steady, respected voice in the federal sector for more than two decades and was recently named a 2026 Elevate GovCon honoree. In his new role, Blake is leading day-to-day execution while helping guide the firm’s strategic direction at a moment wh...
2026-01-2617 min
Former Fed FridaySolitaire Carroll on Veteran Experience, IT Strategy, and Outcomes That Matter Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, hosts Hunter Gros and Shelley McGuire welcome Solitaire Carroll, former Director of the Veteran Experience Services Portfolio at the VA and now a founder working at the intersection of government and industry. Drawing on her journey from contractor to federal leader and back to industry, Solitaire reflects on what motivated her to enter public service and how her perspective shifted as she moved across sectors.
The conversation explores the differences in mindset, scale, and responsibility between government and industry, asking how leadership changes when you move from building individual products...
2026-01-2320 min
GovCon Executive SliceSelling Smart. Tom Springer of SD Capital on Preparing for the Right ExitIn this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Tom Springer, Managing Partner at SD Capital, for a grounded, experience-driven conversation on what truly drives successful middle-market transactions.
Drawing on decades of experience as a business owner, operator, advisor, and former portfolio company CEO, Tom offers a clear-eyed look at how buyers evaluate companies and where sellers often leave value on the table. The discussion goes beyond theory and focuses on the practical realities of preparing for liquidity events, navigating buyer expectations, and aligning transaction strategy with long-term personal and business goals.
The conversation explores what buyers prioritize today, how sellers ca...
2026-01-2213 min
Former Fed FridayGreg Godbout on AI, the Federal Workforce, and the Leap Government Must Take Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire welcomes Greg Godbout, Chief AI Officer at Code360 and a longtime leader in federal technology innovation. With a career that includes serving as former CTO and U.S. Digital Services Lead at the EPA, co-founding and leading 18F, and working as a Presidential Innovation Fellow, Greg brings a rare, inside-outside perspective on how government adopts, and struggles with, new technology.
The conversation covers the pressing questions surrounding artificial intelligence and the future of the public-sector workforce. Greg discusses how AI is likely to transform roles across government...
2026-01-1616 min
Former Fed FridayHow GovCon Can Win Smarter in a Changing Market with Meaghan Hakala Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gros chat with Meaghan Hakala, Principal Consultant at Vericol LLC and a former GSA leader with nearly two decades of federal experience. Megan shares insights from her career spanning Public Buildings Service and GSA Assisted Acquisition Services, where she ultimately served as a division director overseeing a $2 billion portfolio of complex federal contracts.
The conversation explores how Meaghan’s experience managing contracts end-to-end—from acquisition strategy and evaluations to performance management and closeout—shapes the guidance she now provides to industry. She discusses what federal experience unique...
2026-01-0922 min
GovCon Executive SliceBryon Kroger. Rise8. Rethinking How Defense Software Gets Delivered
David Blackburn, CEO of OrangeSlices AI, recently sat down with Bryon Kroger, CEO of Rise8. The conversation traces Bryon’s journey from his Air Force career to co-founding Kessel Run to now leading Rise8, a company focused on helping large enterprises deliver better software at the speed mission demands.
Bryon has been at the center of several major shifts in defense software development, including building the DOD’s first software factory and advancing modern approaches such as continuous Authority to Operate. Today, as CEO of Rise8, he leads an SDVOSB with a fully remote workforce and a growing track record of pa...
2026-01-0720 min
GovCon Executive SliceChristian Ferreira on How Procurement Sciences AI Built Awarded AI to Transform GovConIn this podcast, David Blackburn connects with Christian Ferreira, CEO of Procurement Sciences AI. The company is reshaping how government contractors operate in a market that grows more competitive every day. Procurement Sciences AI is the team behind Awarded AI. The first AI native operating system built specifically for GovCon. A platform that unifies opportunity discovery, bid decisions, proposal automation, compliance reviews, and post award delivery inside one secure environment. It is already trusted across the industry, including by nearly a quarter of the Top 100 contractors, and it recently secured a thirty million dollar Series B to accelerate what come...
2025-12-0819 min
Former Fed FridayWhy HR Matters More Than Ever in Government with Traci DiMartini Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire sits down with longtime federal HR leader Traci DiMartini for a candid look at what the past year has meant for the federal workforce. Their conversation digs into what Tracy sees as an unprecedented breakdown in protections for federal employees, what it would look like if similar upheaval happened in the private sector, and how agencies should be thinking about the real cost of treating workers as expendable.
They explore where automation and AI can actually help HR teams—and where human judgment will always be essential, as we...
2025-12-0513 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Fed to Founder: Monica Padron-Harris on Year One in IndustryThis week, Former Fed Friday welcomes back Monica Padron Harris, former Senior IT Acquisition Advisor at DHS, who reflects on her first year stepping out of government and into entrepreneurship.
Monica shares what it was really like to build a business from the ground up, including what she expected, what she didn’t, and how her federal experience shaped every decision she made. She talks candidly about the realities of transitioning out of government, the shift in mindset required to succeed in industry, and the lessons she learned navigating new clients, new pressures, and a new pace of...
2025-11-2126 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: Adam McNair and Bryon KrogerOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the fireside chat between Adam McNair and Bryon Kroger.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1722 min
GovCon Executive SliceCorey Solivan Explores the Power of Connected GovCon Data with Data Room AIIn this episode, David Blackburn catches up with Corey Solivan, founder of Data Room AI. The company is building tools that take the flood of open federal data and turn it into something growth and strategy teams can actually use. Clear insight, faster planning, and a more connected view of the GovCon landscape.
We dig into three main areas.
First. The core problem that led to the creation of Data Room AI and the gaps in today’s GovCon research and planning process that many teams still struggle with.
Second. The growing conversation ar...
2025-11-1721 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: Ted Rose with Rose FinancialOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Ted Rose of Rose Financial.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1407 min
GovCon Executive SliceGov Con Exec Forum: Matt Vean of JP MorganChaseOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Matt Vean of JP MorganChase.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1406 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: Marty Brennan with Deep Water PointOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Marty Brennan of The Baldwin Group.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1408 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: Eric Mothershead with The Baldwin GroupOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the information shared by Eric Mothershead of The Baldwin Group.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1407 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: Sharon Heaton and Gautam IjoorOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the fireside chat between Sharon Heaton and Gautam Ijoor.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1422 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: Sarah Djamshidi and Mehul SanghaniOn November 7, 2025, OrangeSlices AI held a GovCon Exec forum. This clip is from the fireside chat between Sarah Djamshidi and Mehul Sanghani.
Click here to view the entire event.
2025-11-1422 min
Former Fed FridayFrom CFO to Change Agent: MSI's Teresa Hunter on Modernizing the IRS and Beyond Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire welcomes Teresa Hunter, former CFO of the IRS and now Executive Director at Management Science and Innovation (MSI), for an engaging conversation about leadership, modernization, and transformation inside one of the government’s most complex financial environments.
Teresa shares her 15-year federal journey, from auditing at KPMG to driving financial modernization at GSA, DHS, Interior, and the IRS. She offers an inside look at how strong collaboration between CFOs and CIOs can turn challenges into modernization success stories and how automation, RPA, and AI are reshaping financial ma...
2025-11-1421 min
GovCon Executive SliceGovCon Exec Forum: November 7, 2025GovCon firms are being challenged to compete like never before. To win, they must be faster, leaner, and more efficient, delivering outcomes that drive measurable value for both customers and shareholders.
For CEOs, that means focusing on growth, efficiency, and strategic positioning while minimizing distractions that do not add value. This urgency is heightened by the new administration’s evolving priorities, tightening budgets, and the growing demand for impact-driven solutions, alongside the rapid advance of AI that is reshaping every corner of the market.
The firms that strengthen operational discipline, invest in efficiency, and plan fo...
2025-11-111h 36
Former Fed FridayCarrying the Mission Forward: Benjamin Shotzberger's Take on Life, Leadership, and a Stuffed Pig Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Hunter Gros, Director of Marketing at Vtech Solution, sits down with Ben Shotzberger, a former DHS leader turned consultant, for a conversation that blends humor, heart, and hard-earned insight.
From serving in DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate to supporting FEMA and Secret Service missions, Ben shares what nearly a decade in homeland security taught him about innovation, mission focus, and the unarticulated needs that often get lost between policy and execution.
But perhaps what he’s best known for isn’t on his résumé - it’s the...
2025-11-0715 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Policy to Practice: Ariel Winter on 30 Years Inside Federal Healthcare Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire and co-host Hunter Gros sit down with Ariel Winter, founder of ABW Health Strategies and former longtime federal leader with nearly three decades in government, including roles at OMB, HHS, MedPAC, and CMS.
Ariel shares his remarkable journey from intern to senior Medicare policy expert—offering a rare insider’s view of how federal health programs are shaped, funded, and implemented. He explains what it’s really like to translate congressional intent into real-world healthcare policy and how his new consulting firm helps bridge the gap between govern...
2025-10-3127 min
GovCon Executive SliceIntelligence, Innovation, and Impact: The FBI Roots and Bow Wave Vision of Joshua SkuleIn this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Joshua Skule, Founder and CEO of Bow Wave LLC, a HUBZone and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned small business making its mark across the national security community. After a distinguished 21-year career with the FBI, where he rose to serve as Executive Assistant Director for Intelligence leading a global team of 5,000 and managing a $3 billion program, Joshua turned his focus to building something of his own.
At Bow Wave, he has brought together a team of experts in cybersecurity, counterintelligence, and data science who share his commitment to mission, innovation, and resilience...
2025-10-2918 min
Former Fed FridayBridging Government and Industry with Darren Ash of MSI Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire welcomes Darren Ash, Executive Advisor at Management Science and Innovation (MSI) and former CIO of the Department of the Interior, to share his journey from decades of public service to his new role in industry.
Darren reflects on his 20+ years as a senior federal executive across agencies like the IRS, USDA, and Department of Transportation, offering an inside look at how mission-driven leadership, innovation, and collaboration can transform government operations. He discusses what drew him to MSI, the importance of organizational culture, and how former federal leaders...
2025-10-2411 min
Former Fed FridayFrom HUD to High-Tech: Vinay Singh on Leading with AI Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Vinay Singh, former CFO and Chief AI Officer at HUD and now Chief Experience Officer of Velocity Group Solutions, to talk all things AI, innovation, and impact.
From spinning records as a college DJ to spinning up national AI strategy, Vinay brings a refreshingly human perspective to the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence. He and Shelley dig into how the federal government is adopting AI, the balance between innovation and risk, and what real transparency should look like in this space.
Vinay...
2025-10-1719 min
Former Fed FridayFrom DHS to Amivero: Meikle Paschal on Building Mission-Focused Tech Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, hosts Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gros sit with Meikle Paschal, Senior Solutions Director at Amivero and former RPA Program Manager at USCIS’ Center of Excellence.
Meikle brings a career rooted in national security and IT modernization, from testing border security systems at CBP to leading automation initiatives at DHS. Now, less than a year into his role on the industry side, he’s leveraging that federal experience to drive innovation, human-centered solutions, and mission outcomes for DHS and beyond.
He shares stories from his time working hands-on with border...
2025-10-1016 min
Former Fed FridayNavigating Federal IT and Beyond with Richard Klemmer Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Richard Klemmer, President of Black Box Strategies and Partner at Catapult Growth Partners. Richard’s career path is anything but ordinary. He started as a wage grade 4 in a warehouse and rose all the way to Acting CIO at the Department of Commerce’s NTIA.
With over 25 years of leadership spanning technology, cybersecurity, finance, and mission support, Richard shares how he built his career step by step, from self-taught programming to overseeing major federal IT portfolios. He also reflects on the leap from public serv...
2025-10-0319 min
GovCon Executive SliceAlpha Omega’s New COO on Evolving into a Solutions Firm and Advancing DELTA AIDavid Blackburn, CEO of OrangeSlices, sat down with Eric Laychock, the newly recruited Chief Operating Officer at Alpha Omega. With more than 17 years in consulting, including his leadership as a Managing Director at KPMG, Eric brings the kind of experience and vision that match Alpha Omega’s rapid rise as one of the fastest-growing firms in the federal sector.
Alpha Omega isn’t just scaling - it’s investing in the future. From digital modernization and AI to cybersecurity, the company is pushing transformation that delivers real impact across national security, federal finance, space and science, and healthcare missions. With Eric o...
2025-09-2917 min
Former Fed FridayInside CMS, Outside the Box: Mark Canfield’s New Chapter Sponsored by vTech SolutionFresh out of federal service, Mark Canfield joins the Former Fed Friday podcast with Shelley McGuire to share his journey from Deputy Director at CMS to Founder & CEO of 5pointe. In this candid conversation, Mark talks about why he left after nine years at CMS, what it was like leading high-profile programs like hospital quality reporting and the CQP platform, and how he’s now helping organizations navigate federal challenges with clarity and precision.
From building custom golf carts to building a new consulting firm, Mark brings humor, perspective, and practical insights on bridging the gap between go...
2025-09-2611 min
Former Fed FridayFrom TAC to Tista: Mark Junda on the Evolution of Federal IT Acquisition Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this Former Fed Friday episode, Shelley McGuire chats with Mark Junda, Executive Director of Digital Experience at TISTA Science and Technology Corporation and former senior acquisition leader at the VA. With over 20 years in federal service, including roles at the VA TAC, OMB, and USDS, Mark reflects on his journey driving procurement reform, building contracting vehicles like T4 and T4NG, and shaping IT acquisition strategies that still influence the market today.
The conversation dives into the evolution of VA’s Technology Acquisition Center, the ongoing debate over GSA’s role in federal IT buying, and less...
2025-09-1915 min
GovCon Executive SliceTim Borchert and Atchut Kanthamani on Leading with Purpose at Tria FederalWelcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting.
Nine months ago, one of the biggest headlines in federal health IT dropped: Tria Federal acquired Softrams. The deal combined two rising players and positioned Tria and its leadership team as one of the powerhouse companies shaping the future of federal health
On this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Tim Borchert, CEO of Tria Federal, and Atchut Kanthamani, President of Tria Federal to look at what’s happened since.
Unde...
2025-09-1637 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Federal Service to Nonprofit Leadership with David Gonzalez Rice Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this Former Fed Friday episode, Hunter Gros sits down with David Gonzalez Rice, Senior VP for Policy at the National Low Income Housing Coalition and former Biden-Harris administration appointee. David shares his journey from nonprofit leadership into federal service—and back again—highlighting how his experiences in housing and homelessness shaped national policy.
He opens up about the personal and professional reasons that led him to Washington, the skills that transfer between the government and nonprofit sectors, and what it takes to navigate both effectively. From building coalitions to embracing a fail-fast mindset, David offers valuable advi...
2025-09-1218 min
Former Fed FridayModernizing Government IT: Insights from Alpha Omega’s Rob Brown Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, hosts Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gross sit down with Rob Brown, Senior Vice President of National Security Solutions at Alpha Omega and former CTO of USCIS at DHS. Rob shares his journey from the federal government to industry, reflecting on a decade of leading large-scale IT modernization efforts, cloud adoption, cybersecurity evolution, and building mission-driven teams.
He offers insights on vendor relationships, managing major federal contracts, and balancing innovation with the risk-averse nature of government agencies. From pioneering cloud strategies to fostering cultures of curiosity and experimentation, Rob highlights what...
2025-09-0522 min
GovCon Executive SliceFrom SAP and ERP Integration to Cloud & AI Innovation: The Two-Decade Thorben JourneyWelcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting.
Listen in as David Blackburn sits down with Katrina and Chris Koomey, CEO and COO of Thorben Consulting, an SBA-certified woman-owned small business that has been a trusted SAP and ERP partner to the federal government for more than two decades. Thorben helped lead the Department of Interior’s pioneering FBMS project, the first federal SAP implementation, and has since supported major modernization efforts at USDA, NASA, the Army, and many other agencies.
2025-09-0227 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Policy to Practice: Tom Kessler on Medicare Innovation and Oversight Sponsored by vTech SolutionOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Thomas Kessler, owner of Kessler Healthcare Consulting and former Senior Advisor at CMS’s Center for Program Integrity. With nearly 37 years of federal service, including 28 at CMS, Tom brings unmatched insight into program integrity, fraud prevention, and the evolving role of technology in Medicare oversight.
Tom shares highlights from his career, from leading fraud prevention system reports to Congress, to shaping Medicare payment suspension and prior authorization programs, to exploring AI-driven medical record review. He also breaks down CMS’s latest initiatives—the WISEeR model...
2025-08-2916 min
GovCon Executive SliceCulture, Service, and VA Impact with Jena Jones and PGT SolutionsT
Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting. This episode features Jena Jones, CEO of PGT Solutions, a woman-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned IT and strategic modernization partner serving government agencies and healthcare organizations. From her early career as a U.S. Army psychological operations specialist to leading enterprise modernization initiatives at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Jena’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a relentless focus on mission success.
Under her leadership, PGT Solutions quickly grew from tactical traini...
2025-08-2516 min
Former Fed FridayBuilding Bridges Beyond CMS: A Conversation with Jeffrey Grant Sponsored by vTech SolutionIn this Former Fed Friday episode, Shelley McGuire chats with Jeffrey Grant, President & Founder of Schedule F Healthcare Strategies and longtime CMS leader, to talk about life after 42 years in government service. From record-setting Marketplace enrollments and navigating tough transitions to building a consultancy that champions former CMS talent, Jeff shares his passion for people, programs, and public service. He also opens up about his love of the outdoors, multigenerational national park adventures, and why the best part of retirement just might be time with his grandkids.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead ins...
2025-08-2223 min
Former Fed FridayThe Connector’s Comeback: Anita Allen’s Next Chapter in Small Business Advocacy Sponsored by VTech SolutionIn this Former Fed Friday conversation, Shelley McGuire sits down with Anita Allen, the fiery redhead you may remember as HHS’s long-time small business specialist for CMS and NIH, now freshly retired and stepping into life as an independent consultant. With over 35 years of federal service under her belt, Anita opens up about her journey, from navigating the sudden closure of much of HHS’s small business outreach office to her recent retirement.
She shares tips for small businesses on staying informed and competitive without the once-reliable direct line to a specialist, including leveraging forecasts and free...
2025-08-1521 min
Former Fed FridayFrom Hurricanes to High-Tech: John Binks on Mission-Driven LeadershipOn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gros dive into the extraordinary journey of John Binks, former Chief of IT Management and Director of Air Operations at FEMA, now serving as Senior Director of Business Development at Titan Technologies. With 41 years of federal service under his belt, John brings unmatched insight into what it means to lead with purpose in both government and industry.
From flying relief missions and modernizing FEMA’s IT systems to writing bestselling books on AI and mentoring the next generation of federal retirees, John’s story is about more...
2025-08-0827 min
GovCon Executive SlicePeople First, Powered by AI: How Gurpreet Singh is Scaling Infotrend with PurposeWelcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we explore the personal paths and pivotal decisions of leaders driving the future of government contracting. In this episode, host David Blackburn sits down with Gurpreet Singh, CEO of Infotrend, to unpack the journey that led him to helm a company at the intersection of mission, innovation, and public service. With a background that spans both government and industry, Gurpreet offers perspective on what it takes to build a meaningful career in GovCon—and how a people-first mindset can shape not just leadership, but legacy.
The discussion moves into the r...
2025-08-0427 min
Former Fed FridayDonald Bauer on the Future of Federal HR TechIn this insightful conversation, Shelley McGuire sits down with Donald Bauer, former Chief Technology Officer for Human Resources and Global Talent Management at the U.S. Department of State and now a Partner at Strategic Results Consulting. From writing software for the space shuttle to racing stock cars, Donald dives into the serious business of federal HRIT reform and the lessons learned from decades of government service.
He reflects on his viral article The Monday After, published after his departure from federal service, and opens up about the frustration he felt watching skilled public servants pushed out...
2025-08-0119 min
Former Fed FridaySkills That Stick: What Federal Employees Bring to the Private Sector with Cynuria’s Augusto CangahualaIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros chats with guest Augusto Cangahuala, Principal, Cynuria, who shares his inspiring journey from private sector communications to nearly a decade of federal service—and back again. With a background spanning sales, marketing, IT, and customer experience, Augusto carved out a unique path within agencies like the Peace Corps, EPA, and ACF. He reflects on his transition into public service as a deeply personal way to give back to the country that welcomed him as an immigrant. Now back in the private sector, he’s using his federal experience and leadership as a f...
2025-07-2528 min
Former Fed FridayFrom CMS to CEO: Karen Shields on Purposeful Transition and Ethical LeadershipFrom CMS to CEO: Karen Shields on Purposeful Transition and Ethical Leadership
In this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire interviews Karen Shields, a veteran with over 30 years in federal government service and current CEO of K Shields Health Tech Consulting. Karen shares her deep knowledge of transitioning from government roles to the private sector, emphasizing the importance of personal integrity alongside formal ethics guidelines. She encourages former government employees and contractors to identify their unique strengths and leverage them thoughtfully outside of government, as these skills remain highly valuable.
Karen highlights the vital...
2025-07-1829 min
Former Fed FridayBridging Government and Industry with Emerald One’s Nicole MayerhauserIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire sits down with Nicole Mayerhauser, co-founder and COO of Emerald One and a former federal executive with nearly two decades of service. Nicole shares her journey from economist at the Bureau of Economic Analysis to senior leadership at the VA, and now to entrepreneurship. She dives into the importance of outcomes-driven work, building meaningful relationships beyond agency walls, and how her government background gives her team a unique edge in consulting.
Nicole also opens up about the misconceptions surrounding federal employees and stresses the urgent need for leadership d...
2025-07-1119 min
Former Fed FridayReorgs, RFPs, and Readiness: Phil Surine on FedHealth in TransitionIn this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire talks with Phil Surine, former CMS leader and managing President at Medkasa, about key shifts in federal healthcare programs. Phil explains how Medicare Advantage continues to expand, now covering over half of Medicare enrollees, and why contractors should track this trend closely.
He highlights the risk of chasing RFPs tied to declining programs and stresses the importance of understanding where the government is placing its long-term bets. The discussion also covers the rise of mandatory value-based care models, which are now running as long-term programs rather than short p...
2025-06-2722 min
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
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
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
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
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
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/W0IZQ1lu
2024-05-2916 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 here
2024-03-2422 min