#GOVCOM: It's a Vibe - TopPodcast.com

Latest Episodes:

Leading with Purpose: From Navy to Cyber CEO May 27, 2025

Show notes

Host: Alexa Tsui
Guest: Erica Dobbs, Founder & CEO of Dobbs Defense Solutions

In this powerful episode of #GovCom Unfiltered, host Alexa Tsui sits down with trailblazing entrepreneur Erica Dobbs, whose 35+ years of leadership in the U.S. Navy laid the foundation for building one of the fastest-rising names in cybersecurity, Dobbs Defense Solutions (D2S).

From her deep expertise in C-Suite collaboration and satellite communications to her relentless focus on people-first leadership, Erica shares how military discipline, business strategy, and purpose-driven culture have shaped her company’s success across the government and commercial sectors.

Along the way, Erica opens up about her most valuable lessons learned, the power of human capital, her involvement in shaping national cybersecurity policy, and what it means to lead with impact.

Whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life, navigating federal contracting, or building a leadership legacy—this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways.

Listen in to explore:
Erica’s unique leadership journey from Navy to CEO
How she’s elevating cybersecurity with D2S
Building strategic relationships in the GovCon space
The role of mentorship, community service, and advocacy
What’s next for D2S and the cyber industry

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:13 – Early Career and Leadership Journey
02:52 – Military Experience and Business Strategy
04:15 – Strategic Thinking in Business
06:00 – Core Competencies and Business Focus
10:18 – Networking and Building Relationships
15:18 – Challenges and Lessons Learned
23:22 – Future Goals and Aspirations
25:19 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
#GoGovCom #GovConLeadership #cybersecurity #womenintech #veteranownedbusiness #federalcontracting #leadershipjourney

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Interested in more conversations on government contracting, federal technology, leadership, growth strategy, and the future of GovCom? Follow #GOVCOM: It's a Vibe for new episodes featuring the leaders shaping the federal marketplace.

Modernizing Service Delivery - Brian Chidester on Transforming Government Program May 15, 2025

Show notes

From leading public sector strategy at Adobe to advising global smart cities at the World Economic Forum, Brian Chidester brings a bold and future-forward perspective to this episode of #GovCom Unfiltered: The Podcast.

As Head of Global Strategy and Innovation for Public Sector at Adobe and host of The Government Huddle Podcast™, Brian shares what it takes to lead at the intersection of technology, policy, and public service. With an impressive track record across Adobe, Genesys, Socure, OpenText, and beyond, he unpacks the discipline, mindset, and strategy that define innovation in the federal space.

🔍 What You’ll Hear:
• How Brian’s background in sports shaped his leadership approach
• The mindset and methods driving public sector innovation
• Lessons from bold career pivots—and how to spot the right moment
• Why purpose matters more than a paycheck in mission-driven work
• Balancing competition and collaboration in GovTech
• What’s next in digital government—and how leaders can prepare
• How mentorship and a global perspective fuel impactful strategy
• A look ahead: Brian’s evolving vision for Adobe and public sector transformation

Whether you're a tech strategist, agency innovator, or emerging GovTech leader, this episode delivers sharp, unfiltered insight on navigating complex systems, building purposeful careers, and leading at scale in the digital age.

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Future of GovCon Events & VETS25 Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

From building the nation’s largest veteran business community to influencing federal procurement strategy, Scott Semple brings unmatched perspective to this episode of #GovCom Unfiltered: The Podcast.
As Conference Director of VETS25 and Founder of NewTHINK Solutions, Scott draws on 20+ years of executive leadership in the federal space—including past roles as CEO, CIO, COO, SVP of BD, board advisor, and strategic consultant to venture funds and investment groups. With deep experience launching, scaling, and advising tech-driven GovCon businesses, he shares what it takes to grow with purpose, navigate shifting regulations, and lead with both precision and vision in today’s federal market.
🔍 What You’ll Hear:
• A behind-the-scenes look at building and scaling the VETS25 Conference
• How to lead through federal procurement shifts—and why accuracy matters more than ever
• Scott’s journey: from grassroots veteran networking to national-stage impact
• Strategic insights for GovCon firms: M&A, contract vehicles, mentor/protégé, and growth strategy
• What’s changing with SDVOSB certification and what veteran firms need to know
• Building resilient sales strategies in today’s contracting climate
• Balancing entrepreneurship, mission, and legacy in government business
• What’s next for veteran-led GovCon—and how to stay ahead of the curve
Whether you're a small business founder, BD leader, or federal program executive, this episode delivers sharp, unfiltered insight on how to scale impact, build influence, and grow with intention in today’s evolving GovCon market.

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Breaking Barriers - Leidos: Women Leaders Reshaping GovTech Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

From launching billion-dollar pipelines to shaping federal digital modernization strategies, four powerhouse women from Leidos—Heather Carr, Caroline Thomas, Arfa Syed, and Christy Holley—join us to share their journeys, hard-won lessons, and bold perspectives on modern leadership in GovCon.
With decades of combined experience across civilian, defense, and global sectors, these women are at the forefront of driving transformation within federal IT. Together, they unpack what it means to grow accounts, build trust, break barriers—and what it really means to lead with both strategy and heart in today’s federal landscape.
Meet the Guests:
• Heather Carr – Civilian IT Growth & Strategy Lead at Leidos, with 20+ years of experience shaping strategic technology solutions across federal agencies.
• Caroline Thomas – Account Manager for USDA, Commerce, and the Department of Labor, with a track record of cultivating high-impact partnerships and accelerating federal growth.
• Arfa Syed – BD & Strategy Manager, spearheading digital modernization and cybersecurity innovation in the public sector, with a deep background in tech and thought leadership.
• Christy Holley – Senior Director and Account Manager for the Department of State, bringing over 30 years of GovCon experience across global initiatives, strategic growth, and mind-body leadership.
What You’ll Hear:
• The defining moments that shaped their leadership styles
• Real-world strategies for expanding federal accounts and scaling impact
• How they build trust and authentic relationships across industry and government
• Their honest takes on mentorship, community, and supporting other women in GovCon
• Balancing mission-driven work with life, wellness, and service
• Advice for the next generation of leaders—and what they wish they’d known sooner
Whether you're in BD, tech, or a leadership role, this episode is packed with clarity, candor, and wisdom from women redefining what it means to lead in federal contracting.
Tune in to hear what leadership sounds like when it’s bold, collaborative, and purpose-driven.

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Tech Transitions & Taking Charge: Indira Rice Donegan's Playbook for Career Growth Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

From commanding signal battalions in combat zones to advising on billion-dollar federal tech strategies, Indira Rice Donegan has built a career rooted in service, strategy, and entrepreneurship. Now the founder and CEO of RIDO Technology Consulting, Indira joins us to share her journey from Army Signal Officer to GovCon entrepreneur, and the mission that continues to drive her work.

Indira brings over 20 years of military and federal experience to the table, with a track record spanning cyber strategy, enterprise IT modernization, and leadership in billion-dollar public sector technology programs. She shares her powerful insights on building a business with purpose, leading with conviction, and navigating the GovCon landscape with boldness and grace.

Discover:

The pivotal moments that defined Indira’s leadership style—from commanding tactical units to shaping multi-billion-dollar federal tech portfolios
Her powerful transition from military service to founding RIDO Technology Consulting—and the mission that continues to drive her work
What it takes to lead as a woman, veteran, and entrepreneur in a competitive GovCon market
Her strategies for growing a business through courage, cold calls, and conviction
Practical advice for veterans making the leap into government contracting and entrepreneurship
The best (and worst) career advice she’s received—and how it continues to influence her journey
Her take on mentorship, faith, and the values that anchor her personal and professional life
A candid look at balancing leadership, business, family, and service—with purpose as her north star

For veterans, industry leaders, and GovCon professionals, this episode offers rich insights into leadership, growth, and resilience in the face of challenge. Tune in as Indira shares her inspiring story, hard-won lessons, and vision for empowering the next generation of federal tech leaders.

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Beyond P&L: Carrie Kramer on Leading with Heart in GovCom Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

In today’s complex and highly competitive federal contracting space, building strong relationships and executing innovative, cost-effective solutions is key. In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Kramer, Chief Delivery Officer at DRT Strategies, to discuss her approach to business development, strategic account planning, and delivering large enterprise contracts across classified and unclassified environments.

Carrie is a senior leader with over 25 years of experience and a career spanning professional services, software development, IaaS/PaaS, and operations and maintenance programs. Carrie has mastered the art of winning, managing, and executing government contracts. From leveraging strategic partnerships to driving continuous improvement, she shares her firsthand insights on thriving in GovCon and navigating the challenges of the federal market.

Discover:

• The pivotal career moment that shaped Carrie’s leadership style and approach to federal contracting

• An unconventional strategy she’s used to win contracts or advance in government services—one that others may hesitate to try but should consider

• The person who unexpectedly opened a door for her and how that experience influences the way she mentors and supports others today

• Effective approaches to networking and building meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships in the GovCon space

• Her advice to professionals just starting out, including insights on balancing competition and collaboration in this industry

• The critical role of P&L management and strategic account planning in executing large enterprise contracts

• The future of professional services and IT solutions in government contracting

For federal contractors, industry leaders, and professionals navigating the GovCon landscape, this episode offers valuable insights on securing contracts, driving growth, and leading with strategy. Tune in as Carrie shares her journey, key lessons, and vision for the future of federal contracting!

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Service Now & Beyond Navigating Government Innovation with Alex Khayo Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

In today’s fast-evolving federal IT landscape, adapting to change and leveraging the right technology is critical. In this episode, we sit down with Alex Khayo, CEO of LEIDIT, to discuss how his experiences—from working with ServiceNow to making bold career moves—have shaped his approach to IT modernization and leadership in GovCon.
With over 28 years of experience, Alex has built a career on strategic decision-making, networking, and innovation. From navigating risks and life-changing decisions to balancing competition and collaboration, he shares firsthand insights on growing in the industry and seizing new opportunities in IT.
Discover:
• How ServiceNow influenced his approach to IT modernization
• The pivotal risks and career-defining moments that led to his success
• The mentors and unexpected opportunities that shaped his journey
• The power of networking and how to build strong industry relationships
• Strategies for balancing competition and collaboration in GovCon
• Emerging opportunities in IT and what’s next for digital transformation
• Leadership lessons on growth, resilience, and navigating the federal space
For IT professionals, government contractors, and industry leaders, this episode is packed with insights on navigating GovCon, embracing technology, and building a career in federal IT.
Tune in as Alex shares his journey, the lessons he’s learned, and his vision for the future of digital transformation!

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

AI, Project Management & GovCon: Kathleen Walch on Cognilytica’s Next Chapter Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

AI is transforming project management, creating an urgent need for qualified professionals. In this episode, we interview Kathleen Walch, Director of AI Engagement and Learning at Project Management Institute (PMI), who co-developed the first and only AI Project Management methodology now recognized in government proposals.
As co-creator of the CPMAI methodology, Kathleen has pioneered AI best practices that have helped government agencies, multinational corporations, and NGOs successfully navigate AI implementation. Following PMI's strategic acquisition of Cognilytica, she continues to drive innovation that's reshaping how projects are managed and delivered.
Discover:
• Why this certification could soon be in explosive demand
• How AI is revolutionizing traditional project management
• Critical challenges and opportunities for AI in government contracting
• Practical strategies for AI risk management and accountability
• Cognilytica's roadmap under PMI leadership
For project managers, government contractors, and technology leaders, this episode delivers insider knowledge you can't afford to miss. Listen now as Kathleen shares the methodology that's becoming the gold standard for AI project management certification!

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Breaking Barriers: Ryan Connell on Defense Innovation and Leadership Jan 19, 2025

Show notes

Get ready for an engaging conversation with Ryan Connell. Joined today in his personal capacity, Ryan is a defense acquisition professional with over 15 years of experience and a passion for innovation in integrating cutting-edge technologies.
In this episode, Ryan shares personal stories and lessons learned from navigating the complex world of defense acquisition, collaborating with nontraditional contractors, and exploring how commercial technology can support national security. Drawing from his leadership roles, including on the NCMA Boston Board of Directors and with the Defense Entrepreneur Forum, Ryan dives into the challenges and opportunities of modernizing acquisition processes and building bridges between government and industry.
This episode isn’t just about what Ryan does—it's about how his journey has shaped his perspectives on leadership, technology, and breaking down barriers for innovation. Whether you’re curious about defense, tech, or leadership, you’ll leave inspired by Ryan’s stories and actionable insights. Don't miss it!
00:00 Open
1:26 - How Did You Get Drawn Into Public Service?
3:05 - How Close Are You to Who You Wanted to Be Growing Up?
4:52 - Reflections on Boston
7:06 - 5 Keys to Better Connecting with Remote Team Members
9:54 - The Importance of Doing Something Creative
13:14 - How Do You Stay Current with Technology?
18:39 - What Do You Love About Working in Government?
22:30 - How Can Contractors Improve?
24:48 - What Do You Find Truly Delightful?
27:17 - Advice for Success
32:01 - What Is Your Superpower?

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

Balancing Leadership, Technology, and Life with Appian Innovators Jason Adolf and Li Ma Jan 02, 2025

Show notes

Are you ready to explore the intersection of cutting-edge technology, national security, and public sector transformation? In this episode, we bring together two powerhouse leaders from Appian Corporation who are redefining what’s possible with low-code automation.
🔑 Featuring:
• Li Ma, Area Vice President of Defense & Intelligence at Appian, shares her mission to empower the warfighter and safeguard national security through innovative workflow automation solutions tailored for the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community.
• Jason Adolf, Vice President for Appian’s Global Public Sector, unpacks how he helps agencies revolutionize their workflows to deliver faster, better, and more accurate results for their constituents, drawing from 25+ years of government contracting expertise.
Together, Li and Jason discuss how Appian’s low-code platform is driving efficiency, empowering mission outcomes, and delivering measurable results across both defense and civilian sectors.
🎧 Tune in to hear:
• Behind-the-scenes insights on delivering automation solutions to the most complex challenges in national security and public service.
• How innovation in workflow automation is transforming the way government agencies operate.
• Personal stories and lessons learned from their journeys as leaders in the tech and public sector landscapes.
Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of technology and its impact on the missions that matter most
00:00 Open
2:17 - Why Did You Choose to Work at This Company?
5:35 - How Did Your Leadership Style Evolve Post-COVID?
9:24 - Insights on the Public Sector
16:04 - A Little-Known Story About Your Journey
22:31 - Reflections on LI MA
27:44 - Finding the Right Person for the Job
30:34 - Defining Success: What Does It Look Like?
35:10 - Who Are You Inspiring?
37:15 - Two Pieces of Advice for Success
38:43 - What Is Your Superpower?

Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum

Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui

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