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Unveiled: GovCon Stories
No Real Ending, Just a Pause to the Story
Season 3, Ep. 12
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Summer is on its way and that means we are at the end of another season of Unveiled: GovCon Stories. In this episode, we recap the main takeaways of this season’s insightful and informative conversations with our amazing guests. We also answer questions from listeners and share our perspectives on the topics covered this season. In our conversation, we dig into how the leadership styles in the public and private landscape are shifting and what it means for government contracts. We delve into the strategies for small businesses to anticipate and mitigate risks within government contracting and why asking the difficult questions to prepare is vital. Explore the value of building diverse relationships, how it applies to the government contracting space, the different elements of diversification, and what is at the core of building meaningful relationships. Unpack the “best athlete” recruiting strategy, the role of work ethic in staffing, the challenges of retaining staff, and uncover key recruiting strategies. We talk about managing and navigating the mental and emotional stress of being a small business owner, learning how to be positive, and the role of mentors in dealing with stress. Gain insights into managing cash flow, the secret sauce to winning government contracts, what we have planned for the upcoming season, and more! Tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
- The difference between public and private sector leadership styles.
- How the diversity in government is influencing leadership styles.
- Find out why understanding risk mitigation strategies is vital.
- Outline of the type of risks small businesses face in the government sector.
- Unpack the benefits of fostering genuine relationships in business.
- Discover the fundamentals of creating financial stability in a business.
Call(s) to Action:
- Request to join the Hive39 Community on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/groups/12645189
- Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-stories
Sponsors:
Withum: withum.com
Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm that offers a range of services including business advisory, forensic and valuation services, accounting and assurance, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and tax consulting.
Twenty39 — Helping small businesses be successful in GovCon: twenty39.com
If your business is considering government contracting and needs expert advisory, business development, proposal management, and/or operations support, we are here to help! We provide end-to-end enablement for pursuing government contracts.
Hive39 Community: twenty39.com/hive39-community
An inclusive online community for GovCon Small Businesses and Consultants to learn, share, and grow. Receive free resources to support your business in pursuing government contracts, meet new partners, identify small business-relevant events and cost-appropriate vendor resources, stay up to date on policy and legal changes impacting small businesses, and share 1099 and partnership opportunities. Join today!
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8. AI Solutions in GovCon: Practical Tools for Compliance and Growth
57:04||Season 4, Ep. 8In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we’re diving into one of the most transformative technologies in government contracting today: artificial intelligence. AI is no longer just a buzzword or a tool for tech giants—it’s an accessible and powerful solution for small businesses in the GovCon space. From automating time-consuming tasks like research and proposal writing to enhancing project management with real-time data insights, AI is revolutionizing how contractors work. Imagine offloading repetitive processes to AI-driven tools while staying on top of compliance requirements. Picture leveraging these tools to streamline operations, boost capacity, and improve security protocols. The potential is immense, and today we’re unpacking how small businesses can harness AI to gain a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of government contracting. Joining us for this conversation are two experts from Withum: Lenee Lyte, Principal CPA for the Government Contractors Advisory, and Gareth Patterson, Lead AI Engineer. Together, they explore the real-world applications of AI for small businesses in GovCon, share practical advice on staying compliant in a rapidly evolving landscape, and discuss what’s next for Withum. Tune in to discover how AI can help your business work smarter, faster, and more securely.Guest Bios:Lenee Lyte is a Principal CPA at Withum, specializing in Government Contractors. With 18+ years of experience, she provides expertise in FAR/DFARS compliance, audits, and financial systems implementation.Gareth Patterson is a Lead AI Engineer at Withum Digital. Previously at Endava, he worked on fraud detection and enterprise-level AI solutions. Gareth also biked across the country for charity, raising $500K to support people with disabilities—a journey that built lasting connections.Links:Learn more about Withum on their websiteConnect with Lenee Lyte on LinkedInConnect with Gareth Patterson on LinkedInEmail Lenee LyteAI Watch - Global Regulatory Tracker: United StatesSponsorsThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!
7. Inside the Win: What It Takes for a WOSB to Break Into Government Contracting
58:20||Season 4, Ep. 7Rangena Hotaki, CEO of Designovation, leads a professional services firm that integrates design thinking and disruptive innovation to drive mission achievement across Grants Management & Outreach, Business Process Optimization & Transformation, Strategic Planning & Communications, Finance & Risk Management, and Portfolio, Program, and Project Management.With two decades of experience in strategy, IT, and operations consulting, she is an expert in Federal financial services and multiple industries, passionately enhancing operations to deliver customer-centric solutions for complex challenges.Rangena leverages research, analysis, and industry insights to create and implement innovative methods, frameworks, and roadmaps to solve client business issues. A mentee of the late Clayton Christensen at Harvard, she is well-versed in disruptive innovation theories. Embracing design thinking later on, she found combining both methodologies vital to organizational evolution. She inspires her team to deliver collaboratively, coaching and mentoring professionals to reach their career goals and add value.She has worked at various strategy and technology consulting firms. She holds a B.A. in Economics & Spanish with minors in Biochemistry and Religious Studies from the University of Virginia and an MBA from Harvard Business School, as well as a Design Thinking certificate from MIT.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Designovation Website: https://www.do-strategies.com/Designovation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/designovation-strategies Rangena Hotaki LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rangenahotaki Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!
6. Calculated & Persistent: GovCon Success Beyond the Quick Wins
42:54||Season 4, Ep. 6In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we dive into a strategic approach for success in government contracting—the “calculated and persistent” path. Move beyond the big-growth narratives; what if real GovCon success is about mastering your niche, forming authentic relationships, and laying a strong foundation?Our guest, Aubrey Gainfort from the TSA, brings 16+ years of expertise and shares her insights on steady progress in GovCon. As the founder of the podcast Breaking the Standard, she is dedicated to empowering small businesses to navigate the GovCon landscape with focus and consistency. Together, we explore how to stay informed, build meaningful networks, and balance specialization with adaptability. Tune in for practical steps to achieve sustainable, long-term success in GovCon.Guest Bio:Aubrey Gainfort, a contracting professional at TSA with 16 years of experience, is committed to enhancing communication in government contracting. She founded Breaking the Standard to advocate, educate, and empower small businesses in the industry.Calls to Action:Spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: Podcast LinkInterested in being a guest or suggesting a topic? Fill out our Guest Form.Check out protest lessons at GAO: GAO WebsiteLinks:Breaking the Standard on FacebookLori Smith Acu-ElligentG2 ExchangeGovBrewSponsors:Withum, our Diamond Sponsor, is a technology-driven advisory and accounting firm committed to strengthening clients in today’s business environment. Learn more about their services on Withum's Website.Hive39 Community by Twenty39: Twenty39 offers resources and community support for GovCon small businesses. Join Hive39 to access valuable resources, discover networking opportunities, and find cost-effective vendor solutions. Join Today!
5. Paving New Paths: From Unconventional Beginnings to GovCon Success
42:53||Season 4, Ep. 5In this episode, we explore how breaking from a traditional career path led to the launch of a successful GovCon business and a non-profit that empowers women-owned small businesses in the government sector. Our guest, Johanna Yi, founder and CEO of For People, shares her unique journey, discussing how her background shaped her leadership style, created smart data solutions for government, and addressed the social determinants of health. We dive into her mission of expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs in GovCon.Guest Bio:Johanna Yi leads For People, a mission-driven organization transforming government services through robust data ecosystems. With significant experience in Medicaid and data initiatives, Johanna drives impactful policy and tech solutions and is also VP of the Digital WOSB Alliance, promoting women-led GovCon businesses.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Digital WOSB Alliance: https://www.digitalwosballiance.org/ For People: https://forpeople.us/ Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!Hive39 Community by Twenty39Twenty39 – simplifying the complexity in pursuing government contracts and hosts an inclusive online community for GovCon Small Businesses and Consultants to learn, share, and grow. Receive free resources to support your business in pursuing government contracts; and meet new partners, identify small business relevant events, and cost appropriate vendor resources, stay up to date on policy and legal changes impacting small business, and share 1099 and partnership opportunities. Join today!
4. Finding Stability in Uncertain Times
24:53||Season 4, Ep. 4In this episode of Unveiled: GovCon Stories, we explore the world of government contracting during a presidential election year, a time historically filled with uncertainties. While election years always stir questions about budget priorities and future policies, small businesses in GovCon continue to push forward with innovation, resilience, and optimism. We will focus on how small businesses can maintain stability and seize opportunities, regardless of the political climate, and examine key trends reshaping the market.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!
3. From NASA to New Heights : Insider Tips for Small Businesses in Aerospace and Defense
01:02:37||Season 4, Ep. 3Breaking into government contracting is a challenge for small businesses, and the Aerospace and Defense sector adds another layer of complexity. In this episode, we provide insights into best practices for small businesses pursuing opportunities in this high-demand industry. Learn how to build relationships with key stakeholders, navigate the government procurement process, manage lengthy timelines, and identify the right partners. Whether you’re new to the sector or looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode offers actionable advice to help your business thrive.Guest Bio:Our guest, Dwight Deneal, serves as the Assistant Administrator for NASA’s Office of Small Business Programs. He brings over a decade of experience in leading small business and federal acquisition programs, having previously directed programs for the Defense Logistics Agency and the U.S. Coast Guard. Mr. Deneal is also the Vice Chairman of the Federal Interagency OSDBU Directors Council, a key platform for collaboration among federal small business programs. He holds a Business Management degree from Hampton University and completed executive education at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Download the NASA Mobile Application at [add link]TBD [Note to NASA: please add any calls to action you want to include in the show notes]Links:NASA Office of Small Business Programs: https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/ Doing Business with NASA: https://www.nasa.gov/doing-business-with-nasa-osbpNASA Vendor Database: https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/vendor-database/ NASA Active Contract Listing (ACL): https://www.nasa.gov/osbp/active-contract-listings/ TBD [Note to NASA: please add any links you want to share in the show notes]Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!
2. From Chaos to Clarity: Mastering Leadership in Government Contracting
43:54||Season 4, Ep. 2Imagine this: You’re fresh into government contracting, stepping into a small business as a new managing partner. The stakes are high. Not only are you navigating a whole new market, but you also have the pressure of enabling a company’s growth on your shoulders. Sound overwhelming? You bet! But it’s also where the magic happens.And here’s the exciting part: it’s not just about surviving those early hurdles. It’s about thriving in them—supporting growth of a company through new territory, quickly driving success, and building something with untapped potential. This is more than just a story of business management; it’s about creating breakthroughs that have a lasting impact. So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business leader, or just curious about how innovation can change the game, we’re about to dive into the insights that can help you lead boldly and think differently. Are you ready to lead boldly? Let’s get into it!Guest Bio:Seni Aguiar is the Chief Operating Officer at Digital Charter, Inc. (DCIT), where she has played a pivotal role in securing Prime contracts and driving operational excellence for nearly three years. A PMP-certified professional with over a decade of experience in government contracting and IT services, Seni is recognized for her versatile leadership across business operations, HR, business development, and marketing. She is known for streamlining processes and fostering innovation within the organization.Seni was honored as a DCA Power Woman in GovCon for her contributions to the industry and has shared her expertise at events such as DevOps Days and CodeCamp, where she highlights networking strategies and the power of LinkedIn in advancing professional careers. As a lead organizer for the DevOps Days Tampa Bay Conference for three consecutive years, she has helped bring together tech leaders and enthusiasts from across the country.Outside of work, Seni is an avid reader and is taking professional voice lessons to perfect her car karaoke skills. She and her husband live in Florida with their three energetic boys, whose activities—ranging from sunrise surf sessions and soccer tournaments to band performances—keep them constantly on the move. With her unique blend of professional and personal accomplishments, Seni is a leader who inspires those around her by balancing career success with a vibrant, family-focused life.Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Links:Digital Charter Website: https://digitalcharter.com/ Digital Charter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalcharter Seni Aguiar Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seniaguiar/
1. Last Season's Wisdom, This Season's Growth!
25:43||Season 4, Ep. 1Welcome to Season 4 of Unveiled: GovCon Stories! We’re thrilled to kick off this new season with a powerful reflection on some of the most insightful moments from Season 3. Last season, we delved into government contracting, discussing key strategies for scaling small businesses, the importance of forging strong partnerships with officials, and how staying innovative is critical for long-term success in the GovCon space. We explored resilience, from overcoming compliance challenges to navigating funding delays, while emphasizing how small, strategic wins can lead to substantial growth. Season 3 was filled with examples of how businesses thrived in adversity, shedding light on the creativity it takes to succeed in this complex market.As we embark on Season 4, we’re excited to bring you even more insightful content, including fresh perspectives on emerging procurement strategies, in-depth conversations on leveraging market intelligence, and expert advice on positioning your business for growth in today’s competitive landscape. This season will be packed with actionable tips, the latest trends, and candid discussions with industry leaders about the future of government contracting. Whether you're a seasoned GovCon professional or just starting out, there’s something for everyone as we explore the real-world challenges and opportunities that small businesses face. Join us for a season filled with stories of perseverance, growth, and the practical insights you need to succeed!Call(s) to Action:Help spread the word about Unveiled: GovCon Stories: https://shows.acast.com/unveiled-govcon-storiesDo you want to be a guest or recommend a topic that you would like to learn or hear about on the podcast? Let us know through our guest feedback and registration form.Sponsors:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests, and do not reflect the views or endorsements of our sponsors.Withum – Diamond Sponsor!Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm, helping clients to be in a position of strength in today’s complex business environment. Go to Withum’s website to learn more about how they can help your business!Hive39 Community by Twenty39Twenty39 – simplifying the complexity in pursuing government contracts and hosts an inclusive online community for GovCon Small Businesses and Consultants to learn, share, and grow. Receive free resources to support your business in pursuing government contracts; and meet new partners, identify small business relevant events, and cost appropriate vendor resources, stay up to date on policy and legal changes impacting small business, and share 1099 and partnership opportunities. Join today!