Govcon Giants

In this episode, we talk about how you can improve their business. My guest emphasizes that treating employees well is the most important thing a small business can do. By showing respect and appreciation, employees will be motivated to work harder and go the extra mile for the company. Not only that but the small gestures like paying attention to details, remembering important events, and valuing...

In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of Contractor Purchase System Review (CPSR) audits, which are necessary for maintaining an approved purchasing system when dealing with cost reimbursable contracts with the government. You will learn about the audit process, which includes ensuring auditable files, complete purchase orders and subcontract agreements, and correct dates for reps and cert...

In this episode, we welcome Ed Tuorinsky, a veteran cybersecurity thought leader and CEO of DTS, a company excelling in both the federal and commercial sectors.   Ed shares his inspiring journey from military service to founding a successful company, overcoming challenges in IT, and navigating the highly competitive world of federal contracts. But his story goes beyond winning contracts—it's about...

In this episode, we dive into the procurement process for small businesses bidding for government contracts. The government's objective is to save as much money as possible while maintaining quality products, which means small businesses need to be strategic in their pricing proposals. We highlight three ways small businesses may not make the cut, including under-bidding or over-bidding. Under-bid...

In this episode, Vicky Mangano shares her background in international procurement markets and her experience as a business development manager for construction materials and technologies. She also talked about her work with US government agencies and her training as a qualified construction quality control manager through the US Army Corps of Engineers. In our conversation, we highlight the import...

In today's episode, we discuss the importance of verifying public rates for employees in the construction industry. Researching the Department of Labor's website and reviewing the language of contracts to ensure proper classification of employees is vital. Additionally, we talk about the Wage Theft Prevention Act and the need for contractors to follow up if they are not receiving certified payroll...

In this conversation, Jonathan Barker shares his career journey working for various companies of different sizes, from a 90,000-person corporation to a small family-owned business. He discuss his experiences working for a company that went public and the challenges of being a publicly traded company. His transition from being a young man to a young father and how it impacted his career goals. We a...

In this episode, we discuss the challenges that small businesses face, such as pricing and subcontracting. Marsha Lindquist, a financial expert, explains how cost accounting and other areas tie into pricing strategies. She stresses the importance of developing a company's talent and indirect rate structure rather than just focusing on generating revenue. She encourages small businesses to pursue c...

In today's episode, we have Lynn Petrazzuolo, the founder of Avanti Corporation, a Native American woman-owned firm providing Earth Protection services. She talks about how she built her team, starting with the first contract that came with people and hiring people right out of school with environmental science degrees. She discuss how she decides which projects to take and her experience as an 8(...

In this episode of the GovCon Giants podcast, we have Randie Ward of Alchemy Gov, alongside industry heavyweights Ben Brubeck and Matt Abeles from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) organization. Ben, Vice President of Regulatory, Labor, and State Affairs, and Matt, Vice President of Construction Technology and Innovation, share their expertise on the rapidly evolving construction lands...

In this episode, I discuss the importance of small businesses participating in government contracts and events. I also highlighted the significance of the "rule of two" and the changes that the SBA is making to it. Small businesses can shape requirements and benefit themselves by partnering with other companies in their industry rather than competing against them.  Lastly, small businesses need to...

n today's episode, we talk about the challenges small businesses face when trying to enter the government space. There are many programs available to help small businesses, but it can be overwhelming and time-consuming to navigate them all. These programs need to work together more effectively to help small businesses succeed. One of the biggest obstacles small businesses face is understanding the...

In this episode, we discusses the challenges and opportunities in government contracting. While recent reports show increased confidence among companies in government contracting, the reality for small businesses is different. Many small businesses struggle to run and operate their business in this sector and face challenges in qualifying for contracts. It's vital to emphasize the importance of le...

In this episode, we have Corliss "Mama U" Udoema, and she talks about her experiences of working in Japan and Italy. Working overseas was an experience that stretched her to areas she never saw coming. She is a mission-minded veteran supporter and loves to work for the military. She also shared about her experience in Japan, and the surprising experience she had working there.  Here's a fun fact:...

In this episode, we have Stephanie and the questions she have regarding her niche in the government contracting. We discuss her target market list as she has 9-10 agencies currently. Stephanie also shares about a recent meeting she had with the EPA. This important meeting gave her some contacts to follow up with at other agencies. So how did Stephanie set up this meeting? Tune in to this episode t...

In this episode, we discuss the importance of standing by the truth and being honest with clients, even when delivering bad news. Our guest shares how their small accounting business focuses on providing excellent service to their clients, which has resulted in a loyal client base. We also touched on the importance of working with good people, both in business and personal life, and the benefits o...

In this episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast, we welcome back Venus Quates, President and CEO of LaunchTech, to share the incredible developments since her first appearance on episode 108. At that time, LaunchTech was ranked number 66 on the Inc. 5000 list. Venus details the rapid growth her company has experienced, including their relocation to Huntsville, Alabama, and strategic pivots made durin...

In today's episode, I talk about the common belief that organic growth is the way to successfully build a business. This approach may not be feasible for everyone, especially those who have other jobs and commitments. Breaking down the math behind achieving 10,000 hours of practice, which is needed to become an expert in a field, it may take much longer than expected to reach that level.  So liste...

In this episode, we discuss the importance of looking at industry-specific examples when evaluating business success. Just because a company is making money does not mean they have the best processes, people, or technology in place. Instead, businesses should be willing to evaluate what will make them the highest profit and allow them to use their resources in the best way. Want to evaluate what w...

In this episode, we discuss the importance of building relationships and connections in business. It's important to emphasize the need to meet people in person and have face-to-face conversations to develop connections that can help you grow your network and engage in more opportunities. We also discuss our personal backgrounds and stories about our experiences along the way. Lastly, we also talk...

In today's episode, we have Manish Gorawala, the founder of Tri-Force Consulting Services, Inc. Tune in to this podcast as Manish shares the story behind the name Triforce. He views their company name as representing excellence, integrity and hard work. Now their company specializes in IT systems integration, data analytics, cybersecurity, software testing and IT staffing. He started consulting as...

In today'e episode, we discuss the identification of indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) numbers used in government contracts. Want to know how IDIQ numbers are developed? Most agencies use contract writing systems that generate the number, which typically includes the year, the department within the agency, and a random number for the IDIQ. Task orders are then issued against the IDIQ...

In this episode of the GovCon Giants podcast, we welcome Thomas Beil, a seasoned supply chain expert with a rich background in digital transformation at industry leaders like Honeywell and Whirlpool. Now the founder of Perfect Planner, a cutting-edge supply chain tech firm, Thomas dives deep into the critical pillars of supply chain success: velocity, visibility, and variability. He reveals how ma...

In this episode of the Govcon Giants Podcast, we welcome Erica Dobbs, the dynamic CEO of Dobbs Defense Solutions. Erica's story is one of resilience and determination. She began her journey while still working her traditional 9-to-5 job, with a dream of one day running her own business. Today, she leads a multimillion-dollar company specializing in cybersecurity and IT services for the Department...

In today's special episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast , Eric introduces listeners to John Cook, CEO of Strategic Growth Advisors, a prominent figure in the world of federal contracting. With over 20 years of experience in the D.C. area, John has developed a reputation for guiding small businesses to significant growth through proven strategies that double revenues and secure multimillion-dollar...