The Buzz with ACT-IAC

Latest Episodes:

Navigating Federal Tech: Scrum Mastery and Agile Principles at ACT-IAC Academy Nov 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode we're in conversation with Manjit Singh, the president and founder of Agilious and an instructor at ACT-IAC Academy. They delve into the importance of agile frameworks, particularly scrum, for government IT acquisition and modernization. Manjit shares his extensive technical background and the significance of scrum mastery in managing projects efficiently. He discusses the role of a Scrum Master, common misconceptions, the importance of asking the right questions, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. The episode also highlights continuous upskilling and the value of lean principles in achieving productivity.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

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Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound
(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

Collaboration at the Core: Inside ACT-IAC's Cyber COI Nov 20, 2025

Show notes

We get to talk to Ken Adams, the Chief Strategy Officer at Foxhole Technology and the long-serving Industry Chair of the ACT-IAC Cyber COI. Ken shares his career journey, insights into the collaborative dynamics within the gov tech community, and the importance of continuity and professional relationships. Ken highlights the significance of volunteer work, the impact of ACT-IAC projects like 'Zero Trust' and 'ATO as Code,' and the balance between day jobs and volunteer commitments. The conversation also touches on the non-sales ethos of these engagements and the value of maintaining a collaborative and supportive environment among industry and government participants.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

ICYMI: Keynote Fireside Chat, Transformation Reimagined (part 2) Nov 13, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging session, Steve Boberski, Public Sector Chief Technology Officer for Genesys, introduces James McCament, the first Digital Transformation Officer for CBP. The discussion highlights James' extensive experience in federal service and his role in leveraging digital innovations and AI for enhancing CBP operations. James outlines his strategy for identifying and automating administrative tasks to give 'time back to mission,' emphasizing the importance of human-centered design and field innovation. Real-world examples, including the use of AI for non-intrusive inspections and the development of low-code solutions by frontline officers, illustrate how technology complements human intuition in critical decision-making. The conversation touches on change management strategies to foster trust and adoption of new technologies, underscoring the importance of collaboration, transparency, and practical application. The session concludes with a Q&A, addressing the integration of AI with human oversight and strategies to support cultural shifts within the agency.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

ICYMI: Keynote Fireside Chat, Transformation Reimagined (part 1) Nov 06, 2025

Show notes

In this insightful fireside chat, Joe Adamo from SAIC and Dr. Kelly Fletcher, Chief Information Officer of the United States Department of State, discuss the Department's ongoing digital modernization efforts and the role of technology in global diplomacy. Dr. Fletcher highlights the State Department's unique mission, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust communication networks in crisis situations and the game-changing potential of low earth orbit satellite communication (LEO satcom). She also delves into the implementation of AI to enhance productivity and reduce administrative toil, while addressing the challenges associated with legacy systems and cybersecurity. Dr. Fletcher encourages industry partners to engage proactively with the Department, stressing the need for collaborative solutions to advance technological capabilities. Audience members pose questions on AI agents, human-centered approaches to large-scale transformations, and AI security, which Dr. Fletcher addresses with clarity and expertise.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

The Future of Customer Experience (CX) in the Public Sector Oct 30, 2025

Show notes

We get to talk with Lee Becker, Senior VP and Executive Advisor for Public Sector and Healthcare at Medallia, to discuss the evolving role of customer experience (CX) in government. Lee shares his journey from being a Navy corpsman to becoming an advocate for improving government services through technology. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration between government and industry, the challenges of implementing CX, and the significance of initiatives like the Government Service Delivery Improvement Act.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

Camino de Santiago to Government Tech Oct 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Buzz we get to talk to Todd Hager, the Vice President of Strategic Advisory at Alpha Omega. Todd reflects on his extensive career journey, starting from his early tech roles in the hotel industry, transitioning to government contracting, and becoming a key player in fostering industry-government collaboration. He discusses the importance of emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, and shares insights on building collaborative communities. Todd also touches on significant personal experiences, including his reflective walk on Spain's Camino de Santiago and his longtime commitment to teaching GED math, which have both shaped his professional ethos. As Todd transitions to the IAC board, he shares his vision for future initiatives and offers advice to new COI members on embracing engagement and collaboration.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

Relaunching Partners 2026: Building Tomorrow's Leaders Today Oct 16, 2025

Show notes

DJ Dart, Chief Strategy Officer at Inadev, and Marisa Roinestad, recently retired after 25 years in federal service, discuss the relaunch of ACT-IAC's Partners 2026 program. They share their personal journeys and experiences that shaped their leadership styles, emphasizing the importance of empathy, creativity, and community in the evolving landscape of government-industry collaboration. They also explore the unique strengths of the Partners program, its role in preparing future leaders, and the excitement surrounding its new chapter. Additionally, the trio engages in a lively session of 'Acronym Wars,' showcasing their knowledge of federal agencies and programs.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

ICYMI: AI Revolution in the Acquisition Life Cycle AI Acquisition Forum- 2025 Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

This panel discussion, moderated by Joanie Newhart, Associate Administrator for Acquisition Workforce Programs at the Office of Management and Budget, delves into the impact of AI on the acquisition lifecycle in government agencies. The panel includes Bonnie Evangelista, Jonathan Mostowski, and Kaprice Tucker, who share their diverse experiences and perspectives. Topics cover AI applications in defense and civilian sectors, overcoming fear and resistance, optimizing processes, and the future of AI in acquisition. They also discuss the role of leadership in promoting innovation and the importance of exposure to AI to reduce fear and improve adoption.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

ICYMI: Opening Keynote AI Acquisition forum Oct 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Kareem Fidel of CGI Federal introduces Zach Whitman, Chief Data Scientist and inaugural Chief AI Officer at GSA, who discusses GSA's AI strategies and initiatives. Whitman elaborates on the practical experimentation and deployment of AI systems, the importance of data hygiene, benchmarks for AI performance, and the challenges and opportunities in AI adoption and acquisition for federal agencies. Key topics include AI in acquisitions, talent readiness for AI, and the fine balance between technological advancement and maintaining accuracy and precision in AI governance.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

From Molecular Oncologist to Team Strategist: Trust the Collaborative Journey Sep 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Buzz, LM Bennett discusses her transition from bench science to team science at the NIH and NCI, co-authoring a field guide, and her new book, 'How to Succeed at Collaborative Research: A Practical Guide for Teams.' The conversation delves into the significance of trust, emotional intelligence, and effective communication in scientific collaborations, as well as the challenges of virtual teamwork. She also shares insights on designing successful retreats and fostering interdisciplinary teams, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and preemptive planning in collaborative efforts.

HOME | LM Bennett Consulting

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC