The Buzz with ACT-IAC

Latest Episodes:

Live at Emerging Tech Demo Day: Insights from Next Phase Solutions Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

Insights from the Emerging Tech Demo Day at the Carahsoft Conference and Collaboration Center in Reston, Virginia. Joined by Warren Miller, Corporate Chief Architect at Next Phase Solutions, and Lisa Wolff, the President and CEO, the episode delves into the innovative technologies showcased and their applications in government and commercial sectors. Key topics include data fragmentation solutions with Foresight 360 and the impact of artificial intelligence on future tech landscapes. Hear about their experiences at Demo Day, their leadership journeys, and the challenges they tackle to provide holistic IT and cyber solutions.

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)

Exploring the Integrated Value Network Jul 03, 2025

Show notes

The Integrated Value Network (IVN), a transformative tool for effective governance. Joined by guests Basil White, a senior informaticist, and Beth Martin, a user experience and digital services expert, the discussion highlights the significance of IVN in mapping complex government interactions. The conversation covers their experiences, the practical applications of IVN, and the innovative mindset required for future tech leaders. This episode offers a rich exploration of how IVN aims to revolutionize federal governance by enhancing collaboration and systemic understanding of value.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

Innovators Unite: ET&I Conference Highlights Part 2 Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

We are still live at the Emerging Tech and Innovation Conference, talking with amazing folks, like, Elizabeth McNamara, Health IT Innovation Officer at Next Phase Solutions Services, Virginia Huth a 30-year civil servant who is now CEO of Vanalytix, and Basil White, Senior Informaticist. Discussions revolve around the importance of innovation in public health, the application of AI in healthcare, and efforts to streamline federal policies and grant opportunities. The episode also explores career journeys and personal experiences, culminating in practical advice for those transitioning between public service and private sectors.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

Innovators Unite: ET&I Conference Highlights Part 1 Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Buzz, we broadcast live from the 2025 Emerging Tech and Innovation Conference, featuring exclusive interviews with industry leaders like Destinie Harris from Maximus, Jeff Mercurio from OnPoint Consulting, and Ratima Katari from ICF. Destinie discusses Maximus' Total Experience Management (TXM) solution and her journey in tech, while Jeff shares insights on OnPoint’s contributions to cybersecurity and cloud infrastructure. Ratima talks about her extensive experience in federal health and her upcoming role on the ACT-IAC board. The episode highlights the synergy between government and industry, the importance of technology in solving complex challenges, and fostering connections at conferences like this.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

ICYMI: Top Strategies from Leading Private Sector Contact Centers Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

*NEW EDIT* In this episode, panelists from industry share their strategies and experiences for improving contact center operations. The session is moderated by Crystal Philcox, a former federal executive at GSA and IRS. Topics discussed include the importance of customer feedback, leveraging AI and analytics for better customer interactions, proactive support strategies, and empowering employees for better performance.

Facilitator: Martha Dorris, Dorris Consulting International
Moderator: Crystal Philcox, Former Federal Executive
Panelists: Michael Lassiter, Senior Process Manager, Consumer Intelligence, Capital One
Tara O'Brien, Senior Director, Johnson & Johnson
Brian Pancia, Senior Client Partner-Solutions, Verizon

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

ICYMI: Contact Center Case Studies - Governments Learn Best from Other Governments Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, panelists from various government sectors discuss the critical importance of contact centers and share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for improving service delivery. The discussion includes insights into the role of technology, automation, and human factors in transforming contact centers. Key topics covered include the importance of simplicity, measuring the right metrics, leveraging AI, and fostering inter-agency collaboration. The discussion also highlights the rapid adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing efforts to enhance customer experience in public.

Facilitator: Martha Dorris, Dorris Consulting International,
Moderator: Meghan Daly, Former Federal Director
Panelists: Gundeep Ahluwalia, EVP & Chief Innovation Officer, NuAxis
Mia Jordan, Industry Advisor and Digital Transformation SME, Salesforce
Marcellus Walker Jr., Acting Deputy Director of Operations, Office of Unified Communications, DC Government
Tenesia Wells, Deputy Director, Department of Emergency and Customer Communications, Alexandria VA Government

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

Live at the 2025 Contact Center Annual Summit May 28, 2025

Show notes

In this special live edition of The Buzz, Pete Tseronis interviews key industry leaders on the critical role of contact centers in delivering services, especially through digital and omni-channel strategies. Key speakers, including Martha Dorris of Dorris Consulting International; Amanda Chavez from Qualtrics; Mia Jordan from Salesforce; Marcellus Walker, Jr. from the Office of Unified Communications; Gundeep Ahluwalia from NuAxis Innovations; MaryAnn Monroe from Maximus; Tanya Slater Lowe from the U.S. Department of Labor; Crystal Philcox from Philcox Consulting, share insights on improving customer experience using technologies like AI, sentiment analysis, and automation. The summit emphasized empathy, data-driven decision-making, and the pivotal role of contact centers as the entry point to agencies. Practical lessons, success stories, and future projections for contact centers are also discussed, providing actionable strategies for government and industry leaders.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

The Human Element in Tech and Mission with CIO, DOC Brian Epley May 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Buzz , Pete Tseronis interviews Brian Epley, Chief Information Officer at the United States Department of Commerce. They discuss the intersection of mission-driven technology and humanizing government initiatives. Brian reflects on his journey from the private sector to public service, emphasizing the importance of understanding the mission, building partnerships, and continuous evolution in technology. Key topics include the role of AI, cybersecurity, and the significance of data in driving outcomes. Brian highlights the need for mentorship and a service delivery mindset in achieving effective leadership and impactful solutions in government.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

Voyager Voices: Stories of Growth and Impact May 14, 2025

Show notes

In this special live edition of The Buzz, hosted by Yohanna Baez from Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, the focus is on Voyager Talks, celebrating the achievements of the ACT-IAC Voyagers program. The event highlights the importance of collaboration between government and industry, featuring professionals from the program and supporting Canines for Warriors. The episode includes an interview with Annabelle Garcia, Capture Manager at Evans Incorporated, discussing her presentation, experiences, and challenges as a bilingual professional. Insights into the Voyagers program's impact on her career, networking, and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone are also shared. The conversation wraps up with advice for future applicants and an open invitation for networking and support.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

The Power of Connection: Lessons from the Voyager Program May 07, 2025

Show notes

In this special live edition of The Buzz, host Yohanna Baez broadcasts from Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, hosting the signature Voyager Talks event. This episode highlights the ACT-IAC Voyagers program, a professional development program for rising leaders in government and industry. Yohanna interviews Andrew Powell, Chief Growth Officer of Strongbridge, who shares his experiences in the Voyagers program, including effective communication as a tool for leadership, the importance of collaboration between government and industry, and his personal career journey. Andrew also discusses the strategic role of a Chief Growth Officer and the invaluable lessons learned through mentorship and peer connections within the Voyagers program. The conversation touches on the significance of building authentic relationships, leadership during times of change, and how the insights gained from the program are already being applied in his role at Strongbridge.

Agile Product Discovery Course | ACT-IAC

Summary - A Hole in One with ACT-IAC

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