Shows
The PeelMathtech’s Frank Nestore on AI, Data, and Doing More with Less in GovernmentIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Frank Nestore, Vice President of Mathtech, a 50-year-old employee-owned consulting firm making a strategic move into the federal space after decades of success with state governments and commercial clients.
Frank discusses how Mathtech is bringing proven modernization strategies, pragmatic AI adoption frameworks, and data-driven insights to agencies navigating increased demands, shrinking budgets, and rapidly evolving technology. From human services and taxation to transportation and fraud prevention, Mathtech’s focus is on use-case-first transformation, where AI isn’t just a buzzword, but a carefully aligned tool used to sol...2025-07-2423 min
The PeelCybersecurity, Contracts and Culture: De-risking Your Deal Before You Sell with Sarah Djamshidi and Cy Albaand PilieroMazza PLLC. Episodes will explore the fast-evolving world of M&A in the government contracting space. This series dives deep into the realities facing buyers, sellers, advisors, and operators—unpacking the trends, risks, and decisions behind successful (and sometimes failed) deals. In this premiere episode, Sarah Djamshidi, President and Managing Partner at Speedshift Ventures and Cy Alba, Partner at PilieroMazza PLLC unravel the complex dynamics shaping mergers and acquisitions in government contracting today.
Sarah Djamshidi, CEO and Managing Partner of SpeedShift, is a licensed investment banker with over two decades of experience advising more than 300 government co...2025-07-2332 min
The PeelPartner First, Protect Always: Lessons from Scott Hopper’s PlaybookIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire sits down with Scott Hopper, President of Hopper Consulting and a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel with over 27 years of experience in logistics and supply chain management. With a distinguished military career that included war planning, IT modernization, and serving as executive officer to top-level defense leaders, Scott brings a deep understanding of national security and the resilience of critical infrastructure.
Since retiring from the Air Force, Scott has worked with major government contracting firms before launching his own consultancy, aiming to transform how government and industry approach su...2025-07-2218 min
The PeelReimagining Government Services with Larry Buffondo of MOIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn welcomes Larry Bafundo, the newly appointed President of MO, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business making major waves in the federal and commercial innovation spaces. With a background spanning federal agencies, including the Department of Labor and the GSA’s Technology Modernization Fund, Larry brings a rare dual perspective from both inside and outside government.
He shares how MO is leveraging human-centered design, agile development, and modular system architecture to help agencies like VA, USDA, CMS, and the Air Force modernize services and transform digital experiences. Larry also dives into how...2025-07-2116 min
The PeelBeyond the Buzzwords: Practical AI for Federal Leaders with Empower AI’s Jennifer SampleIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Jennifer Sample, Chief Technology Officer at Empower AI, to explore how this forward-leaning IT services company is helping federal agencies navigate, and operationalize the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. Jennifer shares why she joined Empower AI, describing it as a rare blend of innovation and rigor, where deep tech meets mission-critical government work. From overcoming data silos and aligning internal stakeholders to choosing the right use cases and balancing tools with services, Jennifer offers practical advice for agencies looking to harness AI for meaningful outcomes. She emphasizes th...2025-07-1725 min
The PeelMatthew Sweatt of DivIHN Integration on Career Longevity, AI Tools, and Why Culture Fit Still MattersIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley welcomes Matthew Sweatt, a standout leader with over 20 years of success in business development and government contracting and Vice President of Federal Solutions at DivIHN Integration. Known across the federal space for his high energy and extensive industry presence, Matt brings sharp insight into the evolving staffing landscape and what it means for both agencies and candidates today.
Matt dives into how AI is transforming job markets, why upskilling every 2.5 years is now essential, the key differences between federal and commercial staff augmentation, like speed vs. structure, and why cultural fi...2025-07-1522 min
The PeelIntegrityM on Fighting AI-Powered Healthcare Fraud with Natasha Williams and Beverly RohtertIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn speaks with Natasha Williams, COO, and Beverly Rohtert, VP at IntegrityM, an award-winning, woman-owned small business leading the charge in fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA) prevention for nearly two decades. With deep expertise in Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial healthcare, Natasha and Beverly detail how generative AI—voice cloning, deepfakes, and synthetic identities—is reshaping fraud in alarming ways.
They explain how today’s fraud is faster, scalable, and harder to detect, demanding that integrity professionals rethink even what it means to be “proactive.” IntegrityM is adapting by pushing beyond rules-based sy...2025-07-1430 min
The PeelRobert Turner unveils RFQ Plus: Because You Don’t Have Time to Read 200 SolicitationsIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Robert Turner, CEO of rTurner Consulting, to explore how federal contractors can finally cut through the noise of countless RFQs and task orders. Robert introduces RFQ Plus, an AI-powered solution built to streamline one of the most time-consuming challenges in GovCon: identifying which solicitations are actually worth your time.
Instead of spending hours manually reading and filtering through documents, RFQ Plus ingests and analyzes them instantly—scoring each against your company’s specific bid criteria and surfacing only the most relevant, high-fit opportunities. With explainable and customi...2025-07-0917 min
The PeelArmy AOS, SEWP VI & OASIS+: Hot Takes from the GovCon Front Lines with Eric NusbaumIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire sits down with Eric Nusbaum, CEO of ENcompass Consulting Group, to cut through the noise and deliver a fast-paced, insight-packed breakdown of what’s happening right now across major GWAC and IDIQ programs.
They delve into the Army’s new AOS model, a streamlined approach to accessing innovative solutions, and provide key updates on ITES-4H, which is finally moving toward awarding contracts. They also tackle NASA SEWP VI’s current limbo, with NASA still leading the charge despite a possible GSA takeover, and unpack the ongoing delays and protests ar...2025-07-0830 min
The PeelLeading with Code: Flatter’s Brittany Chiang Bold Approach to GovConIn this episode, David speaks with Brittany Chiang, CEO of Flatter Inc., a fast-growing federal contractor deeply committed to innovation and national security. Brittany shares how Flatter is leveraging AI and automation across its enterprise, training over 20 custom GPTs to enhance capture and proposal development, enabling less experienced team members to contribute meaningfully to data calls and opportunity analysis.
With a unique edge as a CEO who codes, Brittany explains how Flatter's technical capabilities allow them to bid faster and more frequently, even extending support to their mentor-protégé partners by provisioning internal tools to help them su...2025-06-2626 min
The PeelBuilt by a Seller, for Sellers: The Story Behind Subhoo with Mark FlournoyIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Mark Flournoy, a Marine Corps veteran and the founder of Subhoo, which is redefining how federal sales and BD teams uncover teaming relationships across the government contracting landscape. Drawing from two decades of experience, both as a government insider and a commercial seller with companies like Amazon, Red Hat, and F5, Mark created Subhoo to solve a very personal pain point: the frustrating lack of clear, actionable insight into prime-subcontractor dynamics.
Mark shares how he’s personally building and refining the tool based on real-world feedback, what...2025-06-2518 min
The PeelHow RELI Group is poised to take next BIG steps at CMS with Ken Hofgesangn the latest episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire sits down with Ken Hofgesang, VP of Health at RELI Group, to talk about growth, partnerships, and what it really takes to move from small business status to mid-tier success in the federal space, specifically within CMS.
Ken shares stories from his 25+ year journey in health IT, from being employee #1 at a startup to helping steer RELI Group through its “adolescent” growth phase. He reflects on what’s driven RELI’s recent success, including a major CMS contract win, and the importance of building deep, mission-aligned relationships within a single a...2025-06-2417 min
The PeelDr. Bob Frey Talks Project 2025, DoD Transformation, and Strategic Pivots for CEOsIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Dr. Bob Frey, renowned author, educator, and Co-Owner of Successful Proposal Strategies, to connect the dots between what’s happening inside today’s federal acquisition landscape and what GovCon leaders need to be doing right now to align.
Dr. Bob, whose clients have won over $8B in federal contracts, brings a rare depth of expertise shaped by nearly two decades of proposal strategy, six editions of his seminal book Successful Proposal Strategies for Small Businesses, and experience training more than 4,000 professionals across industry and government.
Fresh off the DoD Vanguard...2025-06-2343 min
The PeelChasing Program Integrity: Inside Healthcare Audits with Advize Health’s CEO Jeanmarie LoriaIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire welcomes Jeanmarie Loria, CEO of Advize Health LLC, a trailblazer in healthcare audit and compliance. With over a decade of leadership and a background at KPMG, Jeanmarie has built a powerhouse firm that just landed its first prime contract with CMS—a major milestone in the commercial healthcare space.
Jeanmarie dives into the biggest challenges facing program integrity, from fragmented vendor oversight to the growing influence of AI in fraud detection, and the need for human expertise to keep systems in check. She also unpacks the complex relationships between pl...2025-06-1716 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
The PeelFrom the Court to the C-Suite: Matt Raydo’s Journey from Maryland Hoops to a Major GovCon ExitJust months after 2025-06-1240 min
The PeelNew AI Tool from Turingon Promises Proposal Relief - and Summer VacationsOn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn has a conversation with Arthur Runno, a Navy veteran and 20-year GovCon proposal expert turned tech founder. Arthur is the CEO of Turingon, the company behind Proposal Pilot, an AI-native platform purpose-built for government contractors.
Unlike generic tools wrapped around ChatGPT, Proposal Pilot is fine-tuned for federal acquisition regulations, real RFPs, and customer proposal libraries, offering real intelligence and automation, not just language generation. Backed by a team with serious Silicon Valley and AI credentials, Turingon isn’t just creating another GovCon platform - they’re building a future wher...2025-06-1119 min
The PeelRewriting the Rules: What the FAR Overhaul Really Means with Eric NusbaumFederal contractors and acquisition pros, get ready. In this episode of The Peel Podcast, Shelley McGuire sits down with Eric Nusbaum, CEO of ENcompass Consulting Group, to break down the historic FAR overhaul—its goals, challenges, and rollout strategy.
The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is undergoing a major rewrite aimed at modernizing and streamlining the federal procurement process. This effort is being led by the FAR Council and involves input from across government and industry to simplify language, improve usability, and remove outdated content.
Why it matters: This is a rare and significant opportunity to sh...2025-06-1028 min
The PeelThe Business of Modernization: Automating Impact with Courtney ModeckiIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Courtney Modecki, CEO of 3C Digital Solutions, a woman-owned small business specializing in cloud migration, hosting optimization, and hybrid cloud efficiency. Courtney shares how her experience at major tech companies and federal agencies inspired her to start a niche firm focused on automating and optimizing digital transformation. She explains how 3C uses automation to reduce migration costs by up to 50% and support agencies looking to modernize infrastructure or even repatriate from the cloud. Courtney discusses the growing demand for infrastructure for this purpose, where hosting decisions align more...2025-06-0414 min
The PeelPurpose-Driven GovCon: Sarah Sanchez on RELI Group’s Mission-First ApproachIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire catches up with Sarah Sanchez, Vice President of Digital Services at RELI Group, to explore how purpose-driven solutions are transforming the federal contracting space. With over 20 years in GovCon and a background in the U.S. Air Force, Sarah brings powerful insights on aligning technology with mission goals, leveraging government data, and the urgent need for scalable, citizen-focused solutions. She shares why GovCon must shift from reactive to proactive, and how Rely is helping lead that charge by blending agility with deep domain expertise.
This episode is a must-listen...2025-06-0312 min
The PeelKatey Grogan shares 5 takeaways from GSA Contract Consolidation / FAR Overhaul industry eventIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Katey Grogan, President of K&G Enterprises, a leading a government business development firm that specializes in the United States government procurement process and whose results-oriented team creates federal and state business development programs for companies interested in selling their products and services to government entities.
Katey offers a sharp, no-nonsense breakdown of her 5 key takeaways from this week's GSA industry event - including what she heard (and didn't hear).
2025 is a year of change and Katey’s straight forward guidance will help you und...2025-05-3034 min
The PeelThe Oddball Effect: Inside the Digital Agency Taking Federal Sector by StormIn this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Travis Sorensen, CEO, and Rob Wilkinson, CTO of Oddball—the “strangely human” digital agency making major waves in federal IT. Oddball partners with federal agencies like VA, CMS, and others to deliver modern, scalable software solutions that are intuitive, secure, and citizen-focused. Their work helps modernize critical services—from health benefits to digital accessibility—by blending thoughtful UX, agile delivery, and deep mission alignment.
Travis and Rob share the story behind the Oddball name, how their remote-first culture fuels innovation, and why understanding the why behind every federal project sets their...2025-05-2930 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
The PeelInnovation That Listens: Building with Empathy with Infocap AI’s Dan Keldsenn this episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Dan Keldsen, Chief Innovation Officer at Infocap AI. From his roots in enterprise IT to revolutionizing call center experiences, Dan brings a refreshing, deeply human take on designing systems that work for the people using them, whether they're customers or employees. Dan shares insights on the power of collaboration, planning for real human behavior, and how poor design in customer service systems (especially call centers) costs companies more than they realize.
They explore how mining real user questions and applying modern tools like generative AI c...2025-05-2728 min
The PeelDeal or No Deal? Navigating the New Landscape of GovCon M&A with Adam McNairIn this episode of the Peel, David Blackburn sits down with seasoned GovCon executive and operations expert Adam McNair to explore how operational adaptability is becoming essential in today’s shifting federal marketplace. The two discuss the increasing value of community among similarly situated businesses, especially for smaller firms seeking peer support and strategic insight.
Jason shares why collaborating through forward-thinking venues can spark innovation and collective growth, noting that not all great ideas come from within your own walls. Additionally, he unpacks emerging trends around small business and socioeconomic program dynamics, including the unpredictable future of 8(a...2025-05-2232 min
The PeelBeyond the Screen: Investing in People in a Remote World with Leann AdamsIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire sits down with Leann Adams, Director of Service Delivery at Armavel, for a conversation about people-first leadership in the government contracting space. With a background spanning higher education, events, and program management, Leann shares how Armavel, built remote-first from the start, prioritizes intentional team development, creative hiring practices, and leadership growth at every level. She offers real-world strategies for cultivating connection, mentoring remotely, and breaking the robotic mold in workforce development.
To connect with Leann, follow her on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Armavel by visiting their website he...2025-05-2015 min
The PeelHow Relationships and Solutions Set Us Apart with Chris Arbore and JJ CooneyIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Chris Arbore, President of Disruptive Solutions, and JJ Cooney, Vice President, for a conversation about the company's bold new directions. Known for their cybersecurity expertise, Disruptive Solutions is expanding its impact by launching an OEM Solutions division, a move designed to deepen their trusted relationships with clients and bring cutting-edge technology solutions into focus.
Chris and JJ share how Disruptive’s roots in cyber defense continue to anchor their growth, but the company is pushing boundaries into AI, quantum technology, and infrastructure optimization. They explain how cy...2025-05-1431 min
The PeelOpportunity in the Eye of the Storm: A BD Game Plan with Eric Nusbaum and Blake PhillipsThis episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire talks with Eric Nusbaum, CEO and Blake Phillips, COO of ENcompass Consulting Group for a timely and tactical discussion on how federal contractors can survive, and even thrive, amid the ongoing DOGE-driven disruption in the government contracting space.
Eric explores how companies can weather the storm, offering practical strategies for cutting costs and managing overhead in the short term. Meanwhile, Blake dives into how businesses can steer into the storm, leveraging disruption as opportunity by pivoting into new scopes, agencies, and vehicles.
Listen in and walk away with...2025-05-1326 min
The PeelThe Truth About AI in Proposal Writing with GovEagle’s Akash MandavilliIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn chats with Akash Mandavilli, co-founder of GovEagle, an AI-powered proposal platform built for government contractors. GovEagle acts as a force multiplier, integrating with tools like Salesforce and playing well with “best-of-breed” solutions, rather than trying to be everything. Akash highlights common misconceptions around AI, including the idea that it can fully automate proposals or that training a custom model will outperform foundation models. He encourages teams to start small with tools like ChatGPT or Copilot before leveling up to advanced platforms, and always to request a real-world bake-off to see what the...2025-05-0822 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
The PeelLauren Wingate on People-First Growth in Government ContractingIn this episode of The Peel Podcast Shelley McGuire sits down with Lauren Wingate, VP of Strategic Development & Partnerships at TJFACT. With over 18 years in the government contracting world, Lauren is a powerhouse of positivity and strategy. The two dive into the realities of navigating the ever-evolving federal landscape including high-stakes challenges of capture management, GSA schedules, BD, and building lasting industry relationships.
She dives into how consistency, collaboration, and a strong internal team are key to success — especially when facing budget delays, procurement shifts, and a rapidly evolving federal landscape. Lauren also talks candidly about learning the...2025-05-0618 min
The PeelRedefining Government Efficiency with AI-Powered Innovation with Sukumar IyerIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn interviews Sukumar Iyer, CEO, Brillient Corporation. He explores his perspective on patience when working with the federal government and the importance of focusing on outcomes. Sukumar also discusses how an entrepreneurial itch led him to launch Brillient, how the company has evolved through seven versions over 19 years, and why continual reinvention is essential for success. He dives deep into the creation of ArtificiaL Intelligence Cognitive Engines (ALICE®), an AI-driven platform reshaping government efficiency, and explains how Brillient is helping agencies streamline operations, reduce costs, and embrace digital transformation.
To...2025-05-0136 min
The PeelBuilding a Business with Purpose with Lucy MartinIn this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn chats with Lucy Martin, Vice President of Growth at PingWind, a fast-growing, service-disabled, veteran-owned small business with a unique name, inspiring mission, and impressive track record.
Lucy shares how she transitioned from large firms to helping build PingWind from the ground up—growing the company through smart acquisitions, a rock-solid mentor-protégé relationship, and a people-first culture rooted in continuous learning. Discover the story behind the company’s quirky name, their strategic leap into DOD and VA spaces, and their plan for staying true to their values as they scale...2025-04-3021 min
The PeelDiscriminators, Trust, and Agility in Federal Contracting with Joshua RosenthalIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire is joined by her daughter Sydney, co-hosting for Take Your Child to Work Day, and featured guest Joshua Rosenthal, Director of Growth and Innovation at Cogent People. The conversation weaves through Joshua’s unexpected sailing background and segues into a rich discussion on government contracting. Joshua breaks down how to assess whether to pursue opportunities, emphasizing customer connection, corporate fit, and resource allocation. He also unpacks the importance of discriminators in proposals, the value of building genuine trust with stakeholders (not just "relationships"), and the need for agility in a rapidly ev...2025-04-2918 min
The PeelThe AI Arms Race: Myths, Barriers & Opportunities with Richard JacikIn this episode of Orange Slices, host David Blackburn sits down with Richard Jacik, Chief Digital Officer at Brillient, to discuss the reality of AI beyond the hype. With federal agencies racing to implement AI solutions, Richard shares why the current Large Language Model (LLM) frenzy might not be the game-changer it promises to be. From AI’s legal and operational hurdles to its real-world applications in government and beyond, this conversation breaks down the myths, the barriers to adoption, and the opportunities for mid-tier and smaller firms in the AI ecosystem.
Is AI truly revolutionizing mission-critical op...2025-04-2428 min
The PeelLights, Camera, Contracting: Navigating Media in the GovCon World with Patrick RaffertyIn this episode of The Peel Podcast, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Patrick Rafferty of RaffertyWeiss Media—an award-winning producer/director with 25+ years in commercial, nonprofit, and government media. Patrick shares incredible behind-the-scenes moments with icons like Quincy Jones, Bobby Knight, and Bill Gates, while also diving deep into the unique challenges and opportunities of producing media in the federal contracting space. From navigating the evolving GSA environment to pivoting into the commercial market, Patrick discusses what’s working, how to stay ready, and why storytelling still matters—even in times of uncertainty.
He offers insights into s...2025-04-2216 min
The PeelInnovating Government Operations with Digital Solutions with Lisa WetzelIn this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Lisa Wetzel, President & CEO of VIKINT, a woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned small business transforming government contracting with scalable digital solutions. Lisa shares insights on how Vikint has positioned itself for growth, the importance of documentation in scaling operations, and its focus on federal and commercial expansion in 2025. She also unveils Essence, a powerful digitalization tool designed to revolutionize government operations using Microsoft 365. With a track record of success at the IRS, DoD, and NASA, Lisa and her team are redefining efficiency, innovation, and collaboration in the GovCon space.
To...2025-04-1715 min
The PeelMarketing Muscle: How Branding Powers GovCon Growth with Alex LoveIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire talks with Alex Love, VP of Marketing and Communications at RIVA Solutions, about why marketing is a critical but often overlooked tool in government contracting. Alex shares how strong branding helps businesses stand out, build credibility, and create opportunities. She explains how shifting government priorities impact marketing strategies and why small and mid-sized businesses should focus on strategic, intentional efforts rather than trying to be everywhere at once.
To connect with Alex, follow her on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about RIVA Solutions by visiting their website here.
2025-04-1510 min
The PeelVETS25: The Must-Attend Federal Contracting Event of 2025Listen in as David Blackburn talks with event director Scott Semple about VETS25. Hosted by the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC), the conference takes place May 13-16, 2025, in Orlando and is the premier event for businesses navigating the federal marketplace. With 72+ training sessions, 174 exhibit booths, and 2,000 attendees, it offers unmatched opportunities for networking, learning, and business growth. Attendees will hear from industry leaders’ take on contracting trends, business strategies, and federal opportunities.
The conference features five session types, including pre-conference discussions, high-impact keynotes, and in-depth masterclasses. VETS25 is a top event for small and veteran-owned businesses lo...2025-04-1019 min
The PeelSurviving and Thriving with Your Contracts in an Uncertain Market with Eric NusbaumThis episode of The Peel, talks with Eric Nusbaum, CEO of ENcompass Consulting Group, to discuss how government contractors can navigate the evolving federal landscape in 2025. With contract consolidations, shifting procurement strategies, and increased scrutiny from agencies like DOJ and GSA, companies must adapt to survive and thrive. Eric breaks down key strategies for protecting existing contracts, revamping business development efforts, and refining proposal writing to align with new government priorities. From understanding executive orders to leveraging AI and strategic partnerships, this conversation is a must-listen for industry leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve.
2025-04-0825 min
The PeelNeed Old RFPs? Goodbye FOIA, hello Capture 411In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Christina Mee, CEO of Capture 411, to discuss how her new platform is changing the game for government contractors. Capture 411 is a marketplace where business developers and capture managers can buy and sell historical solicitation documents—making the proposal process faster, more informed, and more competitive. Christina shares how the platform works, the inspiration behind it, and the powerful revenue-sharing model that allows contributors to earn from their archived RFPs. They also discuss the importance of security, anonymity, and the future of the platform as it grows to meet in...2025-04-0217 min
The PeelCracking the CMMC Code: Insights from Derek KernusAre you ready to crack the CMMC code? On this episode of The Peel Podcast, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Derek Kernus, CEO of Aethon Security, to dive into the complexities of cybersecurity compliance, the real costs of certification, and how businesses can turn compliance into a competitive advantage. This episode is packed with expert advice for government contractors navigating the CMMC landscape.
To connect with Derek, follow him on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Aethon Security by visiting their website here.
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view m...2025-04-0124 min
The PeelDriving Innovation in Federal Tech with ERP International’s Pradheeshan CoomaraswayOn this episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Pradheeshan Coomarasway, Chief Technology Officer and President of Digital Solutions at ERP International. Brad shares his journey from software engineering to leading cutting-edge digital solutions in healthcare and defense contracting. They dive into the latest innovations in cybersecurity, AI-powered informatics, cloud automation, and federal technology modernization, all while emphasizing the importance of mission-driven work and employee investment. Plus, a little whiskey talk kicks things off! Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, technology, and making a meaningful impact in federal contracting.
To connect with...2025-03-2514 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
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
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
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
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
The PeelBehind the SEWP: A Conversation with NASA’s Joanne WoytekGet ready for an insightful episode of The Peel as Shelley McGuire sits down with Joanne Woytek, Program Director for NASA SEWP. With 47 years at NASA—33 of those shaping the largest federal IT contract—Joanne shares her journey, the evolution of SEWP, and what’s ahead with SEWP 6.
From navigating presidential transitions to ensuring a strong legacy, Joanne's leadership and passion for innovation shine through. Plus, we hear about her favorite travel destinations and why she’s not ready to retire just yet!
To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.
2025-02-1815 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
The PeelTurning Change into Opportunity with Jeanette PawlakIn this episode, Shelley McGuire sits down with Jeanette Pawlak, a seasoned expert in GovCon and health IT, to break down the shifting landscape of federal contracting. From navigating uncertainty to embracing agility, Jeanette shares invaluable insights on how businesses can stay ahead.
The conversation dives into the power of relationships and communication in uncertain times, the importance of resilience and adaptability, and how small businesses can pivot and thrive amidst federal changes. Jeanette and Shelley cut through the noise, offering strategic advice on how to stay focused and informed without getting lost in the overwhelm. Strive...2025-02-0413 min
The PeelAI, measurement, and messaging: The future of government communications with Denise KennedyDive into the world of strategic communications with Denise Kennedy, Founder and President of Anthology Communications, as she shares insights on breaking through the noise, navigating challenges in government messaging, and the evolving role of measurement and technology in public sector outreach. From addressing media fatigue to leveraging behavioral data, Denise reveals the keys to impactful, solution-oriented communication strategies.
2025-01-3128 min
The PeelThe power of HR in GovCon: A conversation with Halai ShukranLooking to level up your people strategy in GovCon or small business leadership? This episode features Halai Shukran, COO of Pluribus Digital and Marketing & Partnerships Chair for the Digital WOSB Alliance, as she dives deep into the critical partnership between HR and business development in government contracting. From fostering high-performing teams to launching a talent operations collective that’s reshaping the industry, Halai shares invaluable insights and practical advice. Plus, hear how she’s manifesting her dream birthday trip to the South of France. Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with strategy, humor, and heart!
2025-01-2816 min
The PeelCybersecurity and a New Administration: Challenges, innovations, and what’s ahead in 2025 with Aquia’s Chris HughesIn this episode of The Peel, gain insight from Chris Hughes, CEO and co-founder of Aquia, a leading cybersecurity and digital transformation firm making waves in the federal health space. With nearly 20 years of IT and cybersecurity experience, Chris discusses his journey from Air Force veteran to driving innovation in federal cybersecurity. Dive into key topics like Zero Trust, FedRAMP modernization, supply chain security, and the latest shifts in executive orders under the new administration. Also, learn how Aquia became the HHS 2024 SDVOSB of the Year and what sets federal health cybersecurity apart. Whether you’re in government or the...2025-01-2311 min
The PeelThe next frontier in federal tech with Dan NaseliusGet ready to dive into an insightful conversation about the power of AI-driven decision-making in government agencies! In this episode, Dan Naselius, President and CTO at CORAS, explains how their no-code platform transforms data into real-time actionable insights, helping agencies make faster, smarter choices. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, government professional, or just curious about how AI can revolutionize everyday operations, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!
2025-01-2223 min
The PeelWinning in GovCon: Latest Insights from Eric NusbaumIn this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire talks with Eric Nusbaum, CEO of ENcompass Consulting, about the latest updates and trends shaping the government contracting landscape in early 2025. From GSA’s progress on OASIS+ and Polaris to Navy’s Seaport NextGen rolling admissions, they cover critical contract vehicles and what companies need to know to stay competitive.
Eric also offers practical advice on engaging with agencies, voicing concerns on draft RFPs, and preparing your pipeline for upcoming opportunities. Whether you’re a small business or an industry veteran, this episode is packed with timely insights to help you navigate the ever...2025-01-2119 min
The PeelModernizing Healthcare for Veterans: Insights from Maximus’ Karen CinibulkIn this episode, Karen Cinibulk, Vice President at Maximus and a 2025 FedHealth 150 honoree joins host David Blackburn. Karen shares her inspiring journey from her early career with the Department of Veterans Affairs to leading transformative initiatives in federal health at Maximus. Don’t miss this conversation packed with innovation, passion, and a commitment to serving those who have served our country.
2025-01-1710 min
The PeelLeadership Principles for Innovation with ePATHUSA’s Hari NallureShelley McGuire, speaks with Hari Nallure, co-founder and Vice President of ePATHUSA, on The Peel Podcast. Hari discusses his journey as an IT professional and leader, the founding of ePath USA, and his leadership philosophy centered on empowerment, collaboration, and integrity. He also shares insights into his company’s achievements, turning points, and future goals focused on digital transformation and innovation. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, strategic partnerships, and certifications in building a successful small business.
2025-01-1414 min
The PeelStrategies for small businesses working with larges with Lisa Rosenthal of OptumServeIn this episode of The Peel Podcast, Shelley McGuire interviews Lisa Rosenthal, Vice President of Business Development at OptumServe. The conversation spans Lisa’s career journey, her travel aspirations, and her insights on fostering partnerships between large corporations like OptumServe and small businesses. Lisa highlights the importance of strategic collaboration, especially within the CMS space, and emphasizes the value of passion, preparation, and mutual understanding in successful partnerships.
2025-01-0707 min
The PeelBridging government and innovation with Boostaro's Seema SreenivasIn this episode of The Peel, OS AI Chief Strategy Officer Shelley McGuire talks with Seema Sreenivas, CEO, Boostaro and former CMS executive. Seema shares insights on her journey from CMS to becoming an entrepreneur, her passion for healthcare, and the innovative work Boostaro is doing to improve government contracting with a focus on cutting-edge technology. Seema also reflects on the personal experiences that shaped her career and how her past informs her leadership approach today.
2024-10-0919 min
The PeelAI Revolutionizing GovCon: CEO Sean Doherty on why GovDash is the Ultimate All-in-One Tool for Capture, Proposal, and Contract ManagementOS AI's TAKE: GovDash burst onto the scene last spring with the announcement that this pioneering generative AI platform for government contractors had successfully closed a $10M Series A funding round. Over the past six months, a series of aggressive new product launches, enhanced functionalities, and several key hires, including Federal Proposal and Marketing SME Meryl Angelicola, have made GovDash one of the most evaluated and requested products in the market today.
OS AI recently had the opportunity to connect with Sean Doherty, Co-Founder and CEO of GovDash, to discuss a range of topics. Based on our...2024-07-3015 min
The PeelNava CEO - How a two-week trip to save Healthcare.gov kickstarted this high-flying Public Benefit Corporation"I thought I would come out to suburban Baltimore, live in a hotel for 1-2 weeks, and go home." What started as a short trip to help the federal government and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service work through some challenging times, catalyzed the formation of one of the most successful Health IT companies in the Federal sector today.
Need inspiration? This conversation with Rohan Bhobe, CEO and Co-founder of Nava PBC, discusses how what was expected to be a short trip by a band of computer engineers, designers, and product managers helped kickstart the formation o...2024-06-2718 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E23: Organizing in Starbucks, Amazon & More - History of Labor Unions in AmericaAre Starbucks employees happy? No, they are/were not happy. It was all Starbucks branding. And it worked for a long time - until Covid!
This is according to our podcast guest, Professor Kate Bronfenbrenner, Director of Labor Education Research at the Industrial and Labor Relations School of Cornell University.
She is the co-author and editor of several peer-reviewed books on union and employer strategies, and she has testified as an expert witness at Labor Department and Congressional hearings and is frequently quoted in the major news media. Professor Bronfenbrenner is the recipient of many aw...2022-06-1754 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E22: Finland Is Joining NATO - “Never Again Alone”, Finland’s History of War and Uneasy Peace with RussiaThe 1939 Winter War is Finland's creation story. It's a war that Finland fought virtually alone, relying only on its own weapons and resources, against the might of the Soviet Union. It's a war that the USSR failed to win. And it's a war that Stalin believed he would win within 12 days!
After 700 years of being an integral part of the Swedish Empire, Finland was taken by Russia in 1808 and eventually annexed. After the Russian Empire ceased to exist in 1917, Finland declared its independence and then fought a bloody and brutal civil war against its own Bolsheviks. Unlike m...2022-06-101h 07
History Behind News ProgramS2E21: Congressional UFO Hearings - human history of UFO stories, searches & scienceHow many extraterrestrial beings live on Jupiter? How about on the moon? Philosophers and theologians actually figured this out several centuries ago! They also grappled with another burning question - that since extraterrestrial beings haven't heard the Gospel, then how will they be saved in the afterlife? Good one, right!?!
The study of UFOs goes back all the way to Babylonians. While UFOs weren't called UFOs then, there was significant appreciation, interest and quest for what's out there in the heavens.
Our modern interest in UFOs is very much Americanized. It started in the 1940s...2022-06-031h 05
History Behind News ProgramS2E20: War Continues In Ukraine - 5 Reasons For Wars In History"War is hard and finding peace is easier than you think." Are you surprised by this statement? I know I was. I thought that we humans are inherently war-prone and that our inclination is to solve our intractable problems through violence.
This is where Professor Christopher Blattman's timely book Why We Fight (just published in April) is instructive. In it, he describes five reasons why conflict triumphs over compromise. He provides examples of how war can be avoided and why it is waged - from the war in Ukraine to drug wars in Colombia and gang violence i...2022-05-271h 08
History Behind News ProgramS2E19: Ukraine Was Part of A Country Lost To History - the Polish-Lithuanian CommonwealthWhy does Ukraine look to the West for inspiration as opposed to Russia? To answer this question, we have to understand the history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, one of the largest and most populous countries in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries - a country that is now lost to history, a country that engulfed much of modern-day Ukraine.
The government of this Commonwealth was a mixture of different forms of ruling systems - e.g., monarchy, aristocracy and a republic, with many checks and balances that limited the powers of its elected kings. Later in i...2022-05-201h 14
History Behind News ProgramS2E18: Florida's History - from Disney to DeSantis to Special DistrictsWhy does FL Disney World have a special district but CA Disneyland does not? And how special is Florida's special district anyway? Why does a locality or a corporation need a special district anyway? What are the benefits? How prevalent are special districts in our country? How about in FL? And when it comes to FL, is Mr. DeSantis a more powerful governor than his predecessors?
To learn more about all of this, I spoke with Professor James Clark, who lives in Orlando. He is an award-winning journalist and a history lecturer at the University of Central F...2022-05-131h 04
History Behind News ProgramS2E17: 50,00-plus space debris flying at 15x speed of a bullet - history & analysis of space environment & safetyI recently came across a Wall Street Journal article about a four-ton Chinese rocket booster that was anticipated to crash into the moon and expected to leave a 65-foot-diameter crater. This crash is different than all other human-related crashes into the moon because this one was unintentional! According to the article, humans have been crashing spacecraft into the moon for the last 60 years. And, it's not just the moon crashes that are alarming. The mass of human-made space debris is a grave concern as well, as it poses a danger to astronauts, space tourists and the environment in space...2022-05-0651 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E16: Assassinate Putin? - history of Russia’s leaders, revolutions and people: "we can't live like this anymore!"Professor Steinberg explains that Peter the Great and Catherine the Great were great not because of their many reforms, but because they expanded the Russian Empire. President Putin, who some contemporary Russians believe to be great, admires Peter the Great. This explains a lot, doesn't it? By conquering Ukraine, Russia immediately becomes an empire, making Mr. Putin a "great" Russian leader. The irony of Mr. Putin's admiration of Peter and Catherine is that they Europeanized Russia. This doesn't distress Mr. Putin. He has an explanation for it.
But the greatness of Russia's leaders, be they autocratic presidents o...2022-04-291h 08
History Behind News ProgramTrading With the Enemy! | S2E14Does the history of the U.S. Civil War have anything to teach about our time? Yes, a lot. I know! This does sound amazing, even a bit fantastic. But our guest, Roger Lowenstein, who has written several New York Times bestsellers, makes sense of it all and brings the perspective of the past to make sense of our present. Examples include cries of blasphemy for the introduction of paper money, general Grant's and Sherman's frustration with the Union policy of buying cotton from the South while waging war against it (this is not a typo), and the Southern...2022-04-081h 13
History Behind News ProgramS2E13: Saga of Nobel Laureates' Patents - CRISPR history, application, ownership & ethicsDid Nobel Prize-winners lose a CRISPR patent? Lucky for us, Dr. Samantha Zyontz has spent years studying CRISPR, its development and growing research, its myriad wonderful applications (think beer!) and ownership disputes. And get this, years ago, she even predicted that the scientific work on CRISPR will one day win the Nobel Prize. Of course, she was right! What preceded and followed that Nobel Prize is years of patent litigation, and ethical discussions - gene editing!
Dr. Zyont of Stanford Law School is Research Fellow, Intellectual Property, and Fellow, Center for Law and the Biosciences. To learn m...2022-04-011h 04
History Behind News ProgramS2E12: Bitcoins From A Volcano? History of Dollar's Dominance, Paper Dollars & Digital DollarsWill a host of privately minted cryptocurrencies displace the U.S. dollar? Professor Eichengreen tells us about a period in which private American banks issued their own notes. It was a chaotic time that ended with the Civil War. Why does this matter? Because not only is cryptocurrency all the rage with investors but also the U.S. government is getting into the game. The Federal Reserve had been studying digital dollars, and President Biden recently issued a cryptocurrency executive order.
Our guest, Mr. Barry Eichengreen, is a Distinguished Professor of Economics and Professor of Political Science...2022-03-251h 01
History Behind News ProgramS2E11: 20% inflation! A History of Gold, Great Depression, Nixon, Volker, Bernanke & Free BankingDouble-digit inflation during WWI, and then again in the '70s! Thankfully, Professor White explains that in the past high inflation looked like a Christmas tree, meaning that it came down just as fast as it had shot up.
During our podcast conversation, Professor White answered the following questions: Is inflation due to issues of supply chain or supply of money? What was inflation like during the previous major pandemic, the Spanish flu? How did the Fed handle inflation during the Great Depression? What do the famous Nixon tapes reveal about his handling of inflation? How did V...2022-03-181h 03
History Behind News ProgramS2E10: Why Was Civil War Pension Still Paid In 2020? History of America’s Entitlement ProgramsAlthough he did not utter the words "Build Back Better", President Biden tried to salvage parts of his huge social stimulus bill by mentioning them in his State of the Union Address. It didn't work. Senator Manchin remains unpersuaded.
So when did the U.S. government start doling out social benefits anyway? What did John Quincy Adams say about one particular pension program? Which was the party of high tariffs and high pensions? Which three presidents successfully reformed social welfare programs? Which president decreased them the most? How did FDR's New Deal change America's social welfare culture? Ho...2022-03-111h 08
History Behind News ProgramS2E9: What Does Putin Want? - evolution of his ideology"The Putin Puzzle: Why Ukraine? Why Now?" is a recent WSJ essay by Professor Kathryn Stoner of Stanford University. She is also the author of Russia Resurrected: Its Power and Purpose in a New Global Order, a 2021 book published by Oxford University Press.
In this episode, Professor Stoner tells us about Mr. Putin's early years, his moment of shock in Dresden when he received no help from Moscow in response to anti-communist protests. The year was 1989! She also talks about Mr. Putin's love of the Russian Empire - its geography, which he expresses now with nationalism and also...2022-03-0452 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E8: Wars in Ukraine, A History of Russian Imperialism And InsecurityDr. David Stone, U.S. Naval War College, is an expert on Russian military history. He takes us back to a treaty in 1654, one that Russia cites as the basis of its claim to Ukraine. From there, he explains the history of wars in Ukraine, from Peter the Great to Catherine the Great, and then to Vladimir Lenin, WWI and Ukraine's declaration of statehood, and then to the catastrophe of famine in the 1930s and the calamity of WWII.
Dr. Stone is the author of the following books:
Hammer and Rifle: The Militarization of the Soviet Un...2022-02-2554 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E7: Why Don't We Have A Cure For Alzheimer's Disease - history & future"Alzheimer's Disease of forgetting was a forgotten disease" for most of the 20th century, says Dr. Gil Rabinovici of UCSF.
In this episode, he tells us the history of Alzheimer's disease since its discovery and explains why we have yet to discover the cure for AD. In addition, he describes the innovations that ushered in the modern era of AD research. Dr. Rabinovici shares the exciting goal of his large clinical studies. And after giving us some frightening figures about the projected increase of AD population in the U.S., he ends our discussion with a great mess...2022-02-2156 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E6: Have You Gotten Your Booster Shot? - who has the authority over vaccines, a legal historyShould the CDC be independent?
Professor Dorit Reiss of U.C. Hastings Law explains two recent Supreme Court decisions and their practical implications on President Biden's vaccine mandates. She also explains the history behind America’s vaccines laws. For example, do we have federal vaccine laws? Does the federal government have the power to set working conditions for its own employees? Why is it that the CDC seems to have less power than many other federal agencies, such as the FDA? Are there benefits to our system of state-level vaccine laws? Can you sue someone for giving you...2022-02-1156 min
History Behind News ProgramS2E5: Who Are Ukrainians? Kievan Rus'... Ukraine’s National IdentityAre Ukrainians and Russians One People? Mr. Putin certainly claims so. In this episode, Ms. Catherine Wanner, a professor of history, anthropology and religious studies at PennState University, sets out to answer this complex question by exploring Ukraine's and Russia's shared histories, as well as their similar languages and religions.
Professor Wanner has devoted her career to the study of Ukraine and Ukrainians, and has published extensively on this subject. Her most recent book is Everyday Religiosity and the Politics of Belonging in Ukraine (Amazon link). Examples of her previous books include State Secularism and Lived Religion i...2022-02-041h 10
History Behind News ProgramS2E4: 100,000 Overdose Deaths! - a clinical history of America’s opioid crisis. Chasing the White Dragon...Prof. Agahi was working with opioid users from the very beginning of the crisis. In this episode, she tells the story of how America's opioid problem became a pandemic!
Prof. Agahi tells us about "chasing the white dragon", a term she digs into and defines it in the context of overdose, which is the leading cause of death and injury in the U.S. She speaks about who is to blame, how should addicts be treated (wholistic approach), suicide prevention, harm reduction, and compares the opioid pandemic death tolls against other major U.S. killers, such as dia...2022-01-281h 08
History Behind News ProgramS2E3: Who Are Kazakhs? Hummer Taxis, An Uprising & Russian Troops"Old Man Get Out!" With personal stories and professional analysis, Prof. Tutumlu takes us through the history of her homeland, the aspirations of its people and their dashed hopes, and the deep-rooted causes for this month's widespread uprising.
Kazakhstan is a resource-rich country with a very low population density. It has successfully attracted consortiums of large international corporations and diligently polished its business-friendly image abroad. So by all indications, Kazakhs should enjoy high living standards. Unfortunately, the realities of life in Kazakhstan are starkly different than the country's potentials otherwise suggest. The overwhelming majority of wealth and po...2022-01-211h 03
History Behind News ProgramS2E2: Biden Is Forgiving Some Student Loans - history of why student loan programs were designed as a financial productProf. Shermer tells us how student loans were designed as a financial product, rather than a guarantee for higher education. This history, she explains, has made all the financial difference to students, their families and our country, and has created the current crisis.
As of the production of this podcast episode, America's student debt burden stood at $1.73 trillion! Do the math, and you'll note that this figure is not an insignificant percentage of our GDP. While this debt keeps on climbing, no one in government is really rushing to fix the problem. And here is something intriguing: this...2022-01-141h 01
History Behind News ProgramReflecting On Season OneListen to 42 highlights from Season One, and learn about what's coming up in Season Two.
The first season of ThePeel.news has come to an end. Over the course of the past 42 episodes, we've covered many fascinating subjects and organized them into several series, which you can find on our website.
In this first season, our audience has grown, our newsletter subscription has increased, and more and more of you are financially supporting our program through your small monthly contributions.
I am very grateful for your support, which helps us develop and di...2021-12-1727 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E42: America’s water rights - the Colorado River... and was Tennessee stealing Mississippi’s water from under them?Prof. Craig explains America’s water rights, the Colorado River’s special case and environmental consequences of diverting the water far away from their river sources.
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously decided against Mississippi in its water rights dispute against Tenessee. The case was not only the first oral argument of this term and the first decision rendered by the Court, but it was also the first of its kind: a dispute about groundwater rights that is based on tort law, and not the legal doctrine of Equitable Apportionment. If all of this sounds too... well, too leg...2021-12-1058 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E41: vaccines in ‘50s, ‘60s & '70s… clamor & rush to get vaccinatedAs Covid vaccine conflict continues, Dr. Wadman explains history of vaccines that saved our parents and grandparents.
Omicron arrived in America this week. It is a new Covid-19 variant, one which President Biden says is a cause for concern, not a cause for panic. Regardless, the President, the CDC and other health care professionals and institutions are encouraging Americans, as they have been for months now, to get vaccinated. To better understand what the world was like when there were no vaccines, and what happened when vaccines were developed, such as polio and rubella vaccines, we spoke with...2021-12-0353 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E39: defunding the police fails - our criminal justice systems & our "communities"?Defund PD? Not in Minneapolis! Per Prof. Simonson, historically Democrats funded America's PDs in the name of Civil Rights. Minneapolis gets to keep its police department. That's the outcome of last week's ballot vote.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called for police officers "to make sure they are working directly with the community to keep us safe." In our podcast conversation, Professor Jocelyn Simonson brings attention to the complexity of the term "community". What is exactly a community and who is in it? Frankly, before this podcast conversation, I was under the impression that the term community had a...2021-11-121h 05
History Behind News ProgramS1E12: How China's one-child policy was implemented without any laws?China's highly anticipated and much-delayed census finally arrived. And it is making China's officials nervous because it shows a definite downward trend for its population growth. In fact, China's recently announced that families can have three kids, which is a step up from two kids, which was a step up from only one child, which was China's policy from about 1979 to 2015. China's population decline will affect everything - its pension and housing systems to its geopolitical relations with Europe and the U.S. In this episode, we spoke with Professor Wang, who shared the brutal history of China's one-child po...2021-05-071h 00
History Behind News ProgramS1E11: Race, Crime & U.S. PresidentsClick https://thepeel.news/register/subscribe-support/ to support our podcast for the price of a cup of coffee.
The knee of a police officer placed on the neck of an African American man for longer than 8 minutes - in broad daylight, brazenly in full view of a cell phone camera.
How did we get here? How have previous U.S. Presidents handled violence against African Americans? How have they reacted to high-profile criminal proceedings involving Black people? And how does President Biden's handling of the killing of George Floyd and Derek Chauvin's trial hold up against our prior presidents?
So...2021-04-3056 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E10: Biden's $2.3T infrastructure could use a previous president's plan for an infrastructure Constitutional amendment.Republicans argue that President Biden's infrastructure plan includes items irrelevant to infrastructure. It will be a big political fight. But passing big infrastructure legislation has always been difficult - legally and politically.
In this podcast, we briefly review the history of America's infrastructure - from Washington's dream of a water canal to America's constitution, and then to presidents that followed Washington, all the way to Eisenhower.
Become a financial supporter of ThePeel.news podcast by clicking the support button in this link.
📚 Below are citations to some sources discussed in this podcast. Visit the post on ThePeel.news site for citat...2021-04-1042 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E9: Have mass shootings increased in America? Brief review of 2nd Amendment... and then... confusion!America has experienced three mass shootings in three weeks. But have there really been... three mass shootings in the three weeks! We are not trying to be cute here. Of course, there were three mass shootings in the last three weeks. We merely pose this question to highlight the frustrating fact that there is no consensus on the exact definition of a mass shooting. There is actually disagreement. And there is no consensus about the frequency of mass shootings, and whether or not their numbers are rising. After ample research, we were left with confusing and contradicting definitions and data.
I...2021-04-0437 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E8: The filibuster is in the news - to keep or not to keep!Since last week, Democratic Party's push to end the Senate's filibuster has picked up momentum. Republicans are against it and so are some Democrats... including a very important - the President of the United States.
In this podcast, we analyze the history of the filibuster. How did it get started? How do Senators end a filibuster? Why has it morphed from a rare parliamentary procedure of the past to the prevalent practice of our present? And why would a U.S. Senator need a urine bucket close to the Senate floor?
Become a financial supporter of ThePeel.news podcast by cli...2021-03-2629 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E7: Biden's Political Power: $1.9T Covid Stimulus - the history of Democratic Party's paradigm shift from small to BIG governmentLast week, President Biden's Covid stimulus recovery bill became law. Already, many, including President Biden himself, are comparing the Covid stimulus package to Lyndon Johnson's Great Society relief programs. But this colossal economic package is just one of several that Mr. Biden and his Democratic Party colleagues are planning, meaning that the Biden Administration will outlay funds and financial packages the scope of which will likely rival FDR's New Deal programs.
But the Democratic Party that President Jackson founded was in favor of a small federal government and balancing the budget. Although this Democratic ethos changed in the latter decades o...2021-03-1940 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E6: Censored books: Dr. Seuss, Fahrenheit 451, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and many moreBecome a financial supporter of ThePeel.news podcast by clicking the support button in this link.
Last week, Dr. Seuss Enterprises announced that it will no longer publish or license six specific books from the Dr. Seuss collection. This piqued our interest regarding the history of what other classic books have been censored or self-censored in our history due to social pressure. For example, did you know that Fahrenheit 451, a book about book banning, book burning and book censoring, was itself censored in America? And what is banned books week?
Brianna Keilar of CNN rhymes the new Dr. Seuss-style. Watch v...2021-03-1228 min
History Behind News ProgramS1E5: Mr. Potato Head, Gender Neutrality, Marie Antoinette, Kamala Harris, Ms., Mx., Mrs. & MissBecome a financial supporter of ThePeel.news podcast by clicking the support button in this link.
Last week, the title Mister in Mr. Potato Head briefly became a heated social and cultural issue.
Did you know that, not too long ago, the use of Ms., which is a title, a prefix before a woman's name, was a sensational issue in a U.S. presidential election?
📚 Below are citations to some sources discussed in this podcast. Visit the post on ThePeel.news site for citations to specific pages.
Baron, Dennis. What's Your Pronoun? Beyond...2021-03-0528 min