Govcon Giants

Latest Episodes:

226: Lessons in Excellence: Delivering Top-Notch Services and Thriving in Federal Contracting With Mark Masters Jul 17, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Govcon Giants podcast, we sit down with Mark Masters, the dynamic Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chloeta. Mark brings over twenty years of industry experience to the table, and his journey from a federal wildland firefighter to the helm of a multi-faceted national service provider is nothing short of inspirational.

Mark is a proud tribal citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. His career began in the rugged and demanding field of federal wildland firefighting. Over eight years, he served in various capacities, including as an aerially delivered firefighter, also known as a heli-rappeller.

His tenure with the Bureau of Indian Affairs National Interagency Fire Center (BIA-NIFC) honed his skills in crisis management and incident response.

In 2009, Mark transitioned from his federal role to entrepreneurship, founding Chloeta from very humble beginnings. Under his leadership, Chloeta has expanded significantly, becoming a national service provider across multiple domains: emergency management, environmental consulting, healthcare, security, aviation, and wildland fire management.

Mark's expertise and insights have made him a highly sought-after public speaker and media commentator. He has shared keynote stages with prominent figures like Congressman Tom Cole and has been featured in live interviews on major networks including CNN Newsroom, CNN Money, and The Weather Channel.

Mark's entrepreneurial spirit and achievements have been recognized with several prestigious awards. In 2012, he was honored with the National Young Entrepreneur of the Year award by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Additionally, he received the National American Indian Center for Enterprise Development (NCAIED) "40 Under 40" award. His contributions to entrepreneurship were further acknowledged when he served as a panelist on President Obama's Subcommittee on Small Business, Young Entrepreneurship Series (YES), an event broadcasted live on WhiteHouse.gov.

Join us as Mark Masters shares his incredible journey, the challenges he faced, and the strategies that led to his success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, emergency management, and the power of resilience and determination.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamChloeta/

LinkedIn account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdallasmasters/

LinkedIn corporate: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chloeta/

Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/teamchloeta/

Twitter handle: https://x.com/teamchloeta

Website: https://www.chloeta.com/

225: Demystifying Surety Bonds: Essential Advice for Entrepreneurs with Peter Gibbs Jul 10, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode, we have a special guest returning to the show—Peter Gibbs, President and CEO of Foundation, Surety, and Insurance Solutions. Since his last appearance, Peter's company has achieved groundbreaking status as the only African American-owned surety agency with a national license in all 50 states.

Today, he shares the latest advancements at Foundation Surety and Insurance Solutions that can help small businesses better understand and navigate the often intimidating world of surety bonds. With industry experts like his wife, Nakia, a former F-35 fighter jet program worker, joining his team, Peter's insights are richer than ever.

Peter and I discuss the evolution of his team and how strategic hiring can dramatically improve business operations and financial health. You'll discover essential steps to building a trustworthy reputation in federal contracting, learn about the critical importance of financial integrity, and get straightforward advice on how to handle business growth responsibly. For those who missed Peter's first episode, he has an extensive background with the SBA, where he led their bonding program. His experience there, which included maintaining an extremely low default rate on bonds, provides him with a unique perspective that he now brings to the private sector to help people like you and me.

This conversation is packed with practical steps for small businesses to protect themselves from unscrupulous characters in the industry and make informed decisions that can help grow, sustain, and build their business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand, understanding bonding can transform your approach to business growth in the competitive world of federal contracting.

So, tune in to this episode to gain valuable lessons and actionable tips from Peter Gibbs. Let's learn how to make decisions that best help grow, sustain, and build our businesses. Thank you for listening, and please join me in welcoming Peter Gibbs, our next giant, to the stage.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-gibbs-0a9a9a31

Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/foundation-surety/

Website: https://foundationsurety.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FoundationSurety

Email: info@foundationsurety.com

Contact: 240-835-0865

224: Strategies for Veteran Success in Business and Federal Projects with Rob Schroder Jul 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Govcon Giants podcast, we are honored to welcome Robert Schroder, the founder of SteerBridge. With a distinguished background that spans both military and private sectors, Rob's journey is a testament to the value of veteran leadership in federal projects. As a retired Marine Corps Harrier pilot, Rob has seamlessly transitioned his extensive operational, congressional, and acquisition experience into the private sector, founding SteerBridge with a mission to elevate the role of veterans.

Rob's leadership extends beyond his company. He has served two terms as the Finance Chairman for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, showcasing his dedication to supporting the educational pursuits of Marines and their families. His commitment to the military community is further reflected in his roles on the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association board and the USAA advisory group.

Rob's academic credentials are equally impressive. He holds a B.S. from the Naval Academy and M.S. degrees from both the Industrial College of the Armed Forces and the Marine Corps University. Adding to his robust educational background, Rob earned his M.B.A. from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business and a Global Supply Chain Management Certificate from the University of North Carolina's Kenan Flagler School of Business.

Join us as Rob shares his insights on integrating veteran expertise into federal projects, the importance of leadership in both military and civilian spheres, and his vision for the future of SteerBridge. This episode is a deep dive into the experiences and strategies that have shaped a remarkable career dedicated to service and excellence.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robschroder/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/steerbridge-strategies/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true

Company Website: https://www.steerbridge.com

223: Visionary Leadership in Cybersecurity and Government Contracting: A Conversation with Jonathan Hard Jun 26, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode, we have Jonathan Hard, and we delve deep into his entrepreneurial spirit, which is characterized by relentless drive, determination, and a commitment to delivering top-notch results. Listen now as we explore various facets of running a cybersecurity firm, from navigating stringent barriers like CMMC and facilities clearance to expanding into global markets, evidenced by their recent moves in Kenya with Mac Three Defense.

Jonathan also shares his approach to building a robust team, emphasizing that anyone can be an auditor, and how H2L has cultivated a workforce that includes both veterans and newcomers alike, all united under a philosophy of continuous learning and adaptation. We also touch on the critical aspects of getting and managing government contracts, from those initial audits to the complex compliance demands, and how H2L has been indispensable to their clients. Jonathan's insights into the nuances of government contracting, particularly his strategies for overcoming initial barriers and his proactive approach to client engagement, will be invaluable for anyone looking to make their mark in the industry.

One of the things I love about Jonathan is that he shows you a different way to approach growing your business. I know that so often, small businesses that I speak with, coach, and mentor talk about building RFPs and RFQs. Jonathan has a different approach to how he started and built past performance in this space.

Join us today as Jonathan reveals the keys to his sustained success, his vision for the future of cybersecurity and government contracting, his prime contract of managing over 400 assessments, and his journey as a testament to what's possible with the right mix of grit, knowledge, and connections. Let's dive into Jonathan's incredible journey and the lessons you've learned along the way. Our next GovCon Giant.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-h-284b8392/

Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2l-solutions/

Website: https://h2lsolutions.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/h2lsolutions

Email: info@h2lsolutions.com

222: Strategic Networking and Resilience: Expert Guide to Thriving in Government Contracting with Laurie Sayles Jun 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we have an inspiring guest, Laurie Sayles, the President and CEO of Civility Management Solutions. Laurie's journey from the streets of Chicago to becoming a prominent figure in federal contracting is nothing short of remarkable. As a proud Marine veteran, Laurie founded her company after recognizing the vast opportunities in government contracting for individuals with her unique background as a woman, minority, and veteran.

Today, Laurie shares her insights on her transition from military service to entrepreneurship, the challenges she overcame, and how her faith and integrity have been her guiding principles. We'll delve into her navigation of the complex world of federal contracting, her advocacy for veterans, and her strategic approach to building a successful business that not only survives but thrives by helping others.

This episode is packed with valuable lessons on resilience, strategic networking, and the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in business. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a veteran looking to transition to civilian life, or simply curious about the ins and outs of government contracting, Laurie's story offers practical advice and the inspiration to pursue excellence.

So, let's dive right in and learn from one of the best in the business, Laurie Sayles.

Website: https://www.lauriesayles.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriesayles/

Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/civility-management-solutions/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindmergesummit/

Twitter: https://x.com/LaurieSayles1

221: Legal Shifts and Strategic Growth: Expert Guidance on Federal Contracts with Matthew Schoonover Jun 12, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back Matt Schoonover, a legal expert in government contracts. We dive into the latest developments and legal nuances in federal contracting, offering valuable insights for both seasoned and new contractors.

We talk about joint ventures and mentor-protégé agreements, focusing on recent changes to SBA regulations. Matt shares strategies for leveraging these agreements for business growth and highlights the importance of proper preparation and legal consultation. We also explore the impact of recent legal changes, like affirmative action and preference-based programs, and what they could mean for the future.

Scaling up is another critical topic, especially when it comes to meeting bonding requirements and managing significant contracts. We talk about the importance of strategic partnerships, noting that the government is bundling more contracts, which makes it challenging for small businesses to grow organically. Our experiences from recent events and conferences underscore the need for guidance and mentorship in navigating these challenges.

This episode is perfect for contractors who want to understand the current landscape of government contracting. Matt and I discuss compliance with evolving regulations and effective ways to use joint ventures and mentor-protégé relationships for growth. If you're looking to scale your business in 2024, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

The only way to grow a business today is through strategic partnerships, as the trend of bundling contracts makes it tough for small businesses to thrive. Join Matt and me as we provide guidance and expert analysis to help you succeed in the evolving world of federal contracting.

Website: https://www.schoonoverlawfirm.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-schoonover-89098933/

Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schoonovermoriarty/

Email: govcon@schoonoverlawfirm.com

220: The Power of Adaptability: The Path to Mobilization Funding Success with Scott Peper Jun 05, 2024

Show notes

In this insightful episode we have Randie Ward with Scott Peper, the visionary co-founder of Mobilization Funding. Scott delves into his entrepreneurial journey, sharing how he transitioned from a successful career in the medical device industry with AngioDynamics and Stryker Orthopedics to founding a health and fitness company, the Wellness Zone, focused on individual wellness programs for executives. He then narrates his inspiring journey of co-founding Mobilization Funding in 2013.

Scott discusses the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned while transforming a series of investments into the thriving business Mobilization Funding is today. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique cash flow needs of the construction industry and how Mobilization Funding provides tailored financial solutions to help contractors manage project mobilization costs. Scott's strategic approach to business growth and his future vision for Mobilization Funding offer valuable insights for listeners.

Throughout the episode, Scott shares key takeaways from his diverse career experiences and provides practical advice for entrepreneurs. He highlights the significance of adaptability and strategic planning in overcoming obstacles and achieving business success. Additionally, Scott offers tips for managing finances and investments, specifically in the construction industry.

Explore more about Mobilization Funding:

Website: http://mobilizationfunding.com

To connect with Scott Peper:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpeper/

Facebook: https://facebook.com/MobilizationFunding

Twitter: https://twitter.com/scottpeper

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MobilizationFunding

Podcast URL: https://www.youtube.com/@MobilizationFunding/podcasts

219: Walking The Resilient Path: Navigating Federal Contracting Challenges with Roberta Moore May 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Govcon Giants podcast, we welcome back Roberta Moore, the President and CEO of Amoorer Incorporated. Known for her formidable enterprise and compelling journey, Roberta delves deep into the intricacies of federal contracting, sharing her experiences and the challenges she faced. From her leap into entrepreneurship after leaving a secure federal job to battling legal skirmishes, Roberta's story is a powerful testament to resilience and tenacity.

Roberta shares her transition from a secure federal job to starting her own business, detailing the initial challenges and hurdles faced during the early stages of entrepreneurship. She provides a detailed account of the legal battles and darker sides of the business world she encountered, offering insights into how these experiences shaped her both personally and professionally. Throughout the conversation, the critical role of mentorship and strategic networking is highlighted, with Roberta emphasizing how key relationships and mentors provided opportunities and support.

Additionally, Roberta discusses her innovative approaches to overcoming financial challenges, such as her strategies for managing payroll and cash flow, which have been vital in sustaining her business operations. She imparts invaluable advice to other entrepreneurs about the importance of perseverance and building genuine relationships. Roberta also emphasizes the necessity of preparing for life after significant business milestones, such as graduating from the 8(a) program.

This episode is not just about the successes but also the substantial hardships and lessons that come with navigating the complex terrain of government contracting. Roberta's profound insights and experiences offer both guidance and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Eric Coffey encourages listeners to check out Roberta's previous interviews in episodes 91 and 89 for more in-depth stories and lessons.

This episode is filled with valuable insights and advice for anyone looking to make their mark in the business world. Roberta's journey is a testament to resilience and tenacity, and her story is sure to inspire and motivate. Let's welcome our returning guest, Roberta Moore.

Website: https://www.amoorer.com/

LinkedIn account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberta-moore-mba-9560b46

LinkedIn corporate: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amoorer-incorporated

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amoorer/

Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/amoorer_inc/

Twitter handle: Amoorer Inc (@amoorer_inc) / X (twitter.com)

218: Beyond the Basics: Advanced Strategies for Federal Acquisition Success With Shauna Weatherly May 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Govcon Giants Podcast, Randie Ward sits down with Shauna Weatherly, President and Founder of Federal Subcontract Solutions LLC, to delve into Weatherly's extensive experience in Federal acquisition. With over 35 years of hands-on experience and a career spanning various crucial roles within the General Services Administration (GSA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and more, Weatherly brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Throughout the discussion, Weatherly shares insights gleaned from her tenure as a Senior Procurement Analyst at GSA, where she served as an advisor to the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council, analyzing the impacts of new laws, executive orders, and Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense FAR Supplement (DFARS) rules on SAM.gov. Her roles as Lead Business Management Specialist and Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) on the governmentwide GSA SmartPay 3 contracts provided her with invaluable experience in navigating complex procurement processes.

Weatherly's leadership positions, including Director of the National Airspace System, Logistics, and Facilities O&M Contract Branch at FAA, and Contracting Chief at USACE's Tulsa District, showcase her expertise in developing acquisition strategies, evaluating sources, and negotiating contracts across various industries. Additionally, her deployment to the Afghanistan Engineer District highlighted her commitment to overseeing compliance processes for construction contracts in challenging environments.

As a seasoned instructor and sought-after speaker on Federal acquisition topics, Weatherly brings a unique perspective to the conversation, offering practical advice for small businesses looking to navigate the intricacies of Federal acquisition policies and processes. Her dedication to supporting the Department of Defense (DoD), FAA, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), GSA, and civilian agencies underscores her passion for ensuring mission success.

Join us as we explore Weatherly's journey from Federal Civilian Service to entrepreneurship, and gain valuable insights into the world of Federal acquisition from one of the industry's most respected experts.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-weatherly/

Website: https://www.fedsubk.com/about

Contact: https://www.fedsubk.com/contact-us

Email: info@mysite.com

217: Cracking the Audit Code: Federal Contracting Insights from DCAA's Katelyn Rigle May 15, 2024

Show notes

Today we delve into the intricate world of federal contracting with our esteemed guest, Katelyn Rigle. As the Operations Audit Liaison Small Business Coordinator for the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), Katelyn brings a wealth of experience and insight into the dynamics of government contracting, particularly for small businesses.

Katelyn serves as the Operations Audit Liaison Small Business Coordinator for DCAA, stationed at Fort Belvoir, VA. With over a decade of experience, Katelyn has been an integral part of the DCAA team since 2009. She currently holds the role of small business liaison, providing invaluable education, guidance, and support to small and medium-sized businesses navigating federal contracts.

In this episode, Katelyn shares her insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that small businesses encounter in the federal contracting arena. She discusses the importance of compliance, transparency, and accountability in securing and maintaining federal contracts. Katelyn sheds light on the role of the Defense Contract Audit Agency and its impact on ensuring the integrity of government contracts.

As the agency's small business liaison, Katelyn highlights the various initiatives and programs aimed at empowering small and medium-sized businesses in the federal contracting space. She emphasizes the significance of collaboration between government agencies, the Small Business Administration, APEX Accelerators, and federal consulting firms in fostering the growth and success of small businesses. Join us in this enlightening conversation as we unravel the complexities of federal contracting and empower small businesses to thrive in the government marketplace. Tune in to The Daily Windup Podcast for this exclusive discussion with Katelyn Rigle!

DCAA Small Business Outreach Survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NN5MKMD

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-rigle-b97ba0282/

Corporate LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/defense-contract-audit-agency/mycompany/

Company Website: www.dcaa.mil

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