The JR & Ali Show

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Latest Episodes:

No CMS Forecast. No Problem. Robert Hicks Joins JR & Ali to Discuss Opps In-Flight, A bundling Trend & CMS Seeking Solutions Oct 09, 2025

On this episode of The JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by Robert Hicks, Principal at TransformIT Professional Services. With more than 25 years driving growth for some of the top names in Federal Health, Robert brings deep perspective on what it takes to lead through uncertainty. One week into the government shutdown and still no forecast in sight, the discussion turns to what really matters now. Together, they unpack the status of key opportunities still in flight, trends emerging as agencies rebundle and reprioritize, and the practical steps contractors can take to stay in the game. It is a timely, informed, and grounded conversation about leadership, preparation, and positioning for the moment when the doors reopen and momentum returns. 👉 Connect with the Guests:

JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth Solutions
Ali Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational Solutions
Robert Hicks – LinkedIn | TransformIT

Jason Cullum Joins JR Glass & Ali Steer to Discuss the CMS Forecast: Consolidation, Efficiency, and Opportunity Sep 08, 2025

On this episode of the JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, chat with guest Jason Cullum. They dive into the newly released September CMS forecast, unpacking the shifts, surprises, and opportunities hiding in the details.

From the removal of tier two projects to emerging consolidation trends across service desks, the conversation explores how contractors can prepare and position themselves for what’s next. You’ll also hear insights on CMS’s push toward efficiency with contract consolidation, updates on the health technology ecosystem, and what the administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” priorities mean for upcoming models.

If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.

If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.

To connect with Jason, follow her on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Element here.

Anita Allen Joins JR Glass & Ali Steer for an Unfiltered Look and Deep Dive into all things CMS Aug 14, 2025

On this episode of the JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by someone who needs no introduction in the HHS and CMS space: Anita Allen. A respected former HHS small business specialist and relentless advocate for industry, Anita has spent years helping companies navigate the complex, fast-moving waters of the Federal health market. Together, we dig into the latest CMS forecast, dissect some of the most recent high-impact wins, and break down key executive moves that could shift the competitive landscape. Anita also shares candid, insider perspective on how deals take shape, get delayed, or flip entirely behind the scenes — offering valuable lessons for anyone competing in this space. And in some exciting news, we reveal that Anita is officially joining forces with JR, Ali, and GovCon Growth Solutions in a new role aimed at deepening their commitment to industry growth, capture excellence, and mission-driven teaming. If you want to understand the strategies, players, and pivots that define success at CMS, this is an episode you will not want to miss.

The JR & Ali Show: From Insight to Impact – The latest on CMS IT with Lee Ann Crochunis Jul 31, 2025

In this episode of The JR & Ali Show, we’re joined once again by Lee Ann Crochunis, Deputy Director of the Office of Information Technology at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. With a career that spans both government and industry, Lee Ann brings valuable perspective on the current priorities at CMS and the evolving role of IT in supporting agency-wide goals.

From navigating mission demands to managing a $1 billion IT portfolio, Lee Ann shares thoughts on what effective collaboration between agencies and vendors really looks like — including the importance of communication, practical solutioning, and mutual understanding.

Hosted by JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, this conversation highlights the importance of agility, relationship-building, and mission alignment in today’s federal health environment.

To connect with Lee Ann, follow him on LinkedIn here.

JR and Ali Show: The Medicare Advantage Black Hole with Mike Sacca Jul 15, 2025

In this episode of The JR & Ali Show special guest Mike Sacca, a senior thought leader in federal healthcare contracting with over 40 years of experience, joins the conversation. Together, they dive deep into the evolving landscape of fraud prevention at CMS, the future of Medicare Advantage oversight, and how industry and government can better collaborate to prevent abuse before it happens.

Mike shares candid thoughts on CMS’s Fraud Detection Operation Center (FDOC) and the much-talked-about “crushing fraud” initiative, while offering sharp critique on missed opportunities and the $66B+ black hole in Medicare Advantage funding. The conversation also unpacks CMS’s budget reductions, the future of the MIDS and RMADA IDIQs, and the balancing act between provider burden, real-time fraud detection, and the need for innovation.

For small and mid-tier companies wondering where to lean in, Mike offers straight talk on how to position strategically in a tightening market — from cost competitiveness to teaming for future IDIQ opportunities.

If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.
If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.

If you'd like to reach out to Mike, connect with him on LinkedIn. |

If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.

JR and Ali Show: July Forecast winds and BD Strategies in a Shifting CMS Landscape Jul 09, 2025

In this midsummer edition of The JR and Ali Show, listen in to unpack what’s happening behind the scenes at CMS. From a major churn in the July forecast, where 20% of opportunities changed month over month, to the deeper implications of sole-source awards, follow-on extensions, and TBD acquisition paths, they dive into how CMS is trying to keep moving despite resource constraints and workforce reductions.

The conversation explores the ripple effects these shifts are having on the business development community, especially as agencies face hiring freezes, RIFs, and a backlog of procurements. With many contracts delayed or awarded non-competitively, established firms are refining their strategies and using this time to position for the long game, while newer players struggle to gain traction.

Hosted by JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, this episode is packed with valuable insights on navigating uncertainty, building momentum, and preparing to keep ahead of the market.

If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.

Former CMS Leader Robert Suggs of Dynanet Breaks Down the Shifting CMS Landscape and What is Next Jun 24, 2025

In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, Robert Suggs joins the conversation to share his insights on the evolving Federal Health landscape. A former CMS Contracting Officer Representative and Program leader, Robert now serves as a Federal Health leader at rapidly emerging Federal Health player Dynanet Corporation, bringing a unique perspective shaped by experience on both the government and industry sides.

Robert discusses key procurement trends, shifts in CMS operations, and DynaNet’s role as a prime on the ACME BPA. He provides his take on the latest CMS forecast (the first published list in many months), explores the changing dynamics impacting competition, and offers guidance for companies preparing for the upcoming CMS Quality Conference.

If you'd like to reach out to Robert, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn more about Dynanet Corporation here.

If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.

JR & Ali Show: CMS Forecast is Back and so is Jason Cullum Jun 09, 2025

In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, chats with guest Jason Cullum, Vice President with Element. They offer a candid, forward-looking view into how CMS is approaching procurement, innovation, and industry collaboration.

Their message is clear: CMS is listening. They’re prioritizing outcomes, updating forecasts, and creating space for meaningful dialogue, including invite-only industry days that are becoming more targeted and mission-focused.

AI and automation are in the mix, but CMS isn’t chasing buzzwords. As JR emphasizes, tools are only as good as their alignment to the mission. Jason echoes the need for solutions that are not only technically sound but grounded in CMS’s unique policy and operational environment. The companies making headway are those who understand nuance and show up prepared to collaborate, not just sell.

Despite challenges in the procurement process, including more manual reviews and compliance demands, JR and Jason point to real progress. CMS is capturing billions in savings and exploring smarter ways to buy. They also hint at broader shifts within HHS, like the potential to consolidate procurement authority in strategic areas such as the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN).

JR and Ali Show: Jeff Grant Speaks on Leadership, Layoffs, and Life After CMS Apr 28, 2025

In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions welcome special guest, former CMS leader Jeffrey Grant shares his personal journey from his retirement from government to launching Schedule F Healthcare Strategies, an organization dedicated to supporting recently laid-off federal employees. With over 30 years in public service, Jeffrey brings deep insight into the recent wave of government layoffs. He dives into the legal and ethical complexities surrounding the dismissal of over 2,000 probationary employees and the systemic challenges facing federal workforce transitions. The conversation also explores Jeff’s philosophy of servant leadership and how he continues to advocate for his colleagues even after leaving government service.

If you'd like to contact Jeffrey, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn more about Schedule F Healthcare Strategies here.

JR & Ali Show: Federal Procurement in Turbulent Times with Brian Hebbel Apr 16, 2025

In this timely episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, welcome special guest Brian Hebbel, President, BARC BusinessAdvisors. With over 34 years of experience inside government contracting and a new perspective from the industry side, Brian dives into the real-time impact of recent Reduction-in-Force (RIF) actions across CMS, NIH, and other HHS agencies. From shocking layoffs and budget cuts up to 35%, to disrupted communication channels, org charts wiped clean, and contractors left in the dark, this episode peels back the curtain on the chaos behind the headlines.

The trio shares practical advice for navigating the storm, including how contractors can support overwhelmed agency staff, prepare for logical follow-ons, and stay mission-focused despite uncertainty. Whether you're a government leader, a contracting officer, or an industry partner trying to make sense of the current climate.

JR & Ali Show with Jason Cullum: Mission Over Chaos Mar 13, 2025

In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions welcome special guest Jason Cullum, Vice President of Digital Services with Element Solutions. The trio discuss the evolving landscape of federal contracting and break down the impact of recent executive orders, contract cancellations, and shifting procurement strategies.

Key insights include the trends driving contract terminations, the importance of staying mission-focused amidst uncertainty, and how businesses can adapt by leveraging existing contracts, sole-source opportunities, and strategic positioning. With government agencies tightening budgets and restructuring priorities, these experts emphasize resilience, adaptability, and maintaining a positive outlook.

JR & Ali Show with Sparksoft’s Mike Finkel: The CMS Non-Forecast, Fed Exit Risks and is HIMSS Gov a Go/No go? Feb 07, 2025

In the ever-changing landscape of government contracting, adaptability is key—especially in the world of federal health. In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions welcome special guest Mike Finkel, CEO of Sparksoft. They dive into the the non-CMS forecast for Februay, brain drain within the government, and whether there’s value in attending the upcoming HIMSS conference. They also discuss the potential impacts of a new administration, and how shifts in technology, fraud prevention, and contract structures could shape the future. Is this a moment of challenge or opportunity for small businesses?

Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.

What’s new in January? JR & Ali dive into the CMS Opp Forecast Jan 13, 2025

Curious about what’s happening in the CMS contracting landscape? JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions are back! This episode unpacks January’s forecast, highlighting key shifts such as the removal of high-value opportunities like MAPS and NPAS, and intriguing updates on sole source awards. Discover insights on potential market research trends, the growing role of small businesses, and the rising activity in the VETS2 IDIQ space. Whether you’re tracking recompetes or looking for emerging opportunities, tune in for expert analysis and industry intel you won’t want to miss!

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