In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of Contractor Purchase System Review (CPSR) audits, which are necessary for maintaining an approved purchasing system when dealing with cost reimbursable contracts with the government. You will learn about the audit process, which includes ensuring auditable files, complete purchase orders and subcontract agreements, and correct dates for reps and certs. Small businesses can benefit from help with administrative functions like CPSR audits, with the i...
Dec 05, 2024•11 min
In this episode, we welcome Ed Tuorinsky, a veteran cybersecurity thought leader and CEO of DTS, a company excelling in both the federal and commercial sectors. Ed shares his inspiring journey from military service to founding a successful company, overcoming challenges in IT, and navigating the highly competitive world of federal contracts. But his story goes beyond winning contracts—it's about leading with integrity, building a solid team, and staying ahead in the ever-evolving cybersecurity l...
Dec 04, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 1Ep. 242
In this episode, we dive into the procurement process for small businesses bidding for government contracts. The government's objective is to save as much money as possible while maintaining quality products, which means small businesses need to be strategic in their pricing proposals. We highlight three ways small businesses may not make the cut, including under-bidding or over-bidding. Under-bidding will disqualify them, and over-bidding will result in not getting the contract. It's crucial to...
Dec 03, 2024•10 min
In this episode, Vicky Mangano shares her background in international procurement markets and her experience as a business development manager for construction materials and technologies. She also talked about her work with US government agencies and her training as a qualified construction quality control manager through the US Army Corps of Engineers. In our conversation, we highlight the importance of understanding procurement procedures, technical specifications, and maintaining contact betw...
Dec 02, 2024•9 min
In today's episode, we discuss the importance of verifying public rates for employees in the construction industry. Researching the Department of Labor's website and reviewing the language of contracts to ensure proper classification of employees is vital. Additionally, we talk about the Wage Theft Prevention Act and the need for contractors to follow up if they are not receiving certified payrolls from subcontractors. The episode highlights the challenges of finding reliable subcontractors in t...
Dec 01, 2024•8 min
In this conversation, Jonathan Barker shares his career journey working for various companies of different sizes, from a 90,000-person corporation to a small family-owned business. He discuss his experiences working for a company that went public and the challenges of being a publicly traded company. His transition from being a young man to a young father and how it impacted his career goals. We also talked about the struggles of working for a small business that lost its small business status, ...
Nov 30, 2024•8 min
In this episode, we discuss the challenges that small businesses face, such as pricing and subcontracting. Marsha Lindquist, a financial expert, explains how cost accounting and other areas tie into pricing strategies. She stresses the importance of developing a company's talent and indirect rate structure rather than just focusing on generating revenue. She encourages small businesses to pursue contracts that will help them grow and develop, rather than simply bidding on everything. Know more a...
Nov 29, 2024•9 min
In today's episode, we have Lynn Petrazzuolo, the founder of Avanti Corporation, a Native American woman-owned firm providing Earth Protection services. She talks about how she built her team, starting with the first contract that came with people and hiring people right out of school with environmental science degrees. She discuss how she decides which projects to take and her experience as an 8(a) program participant. Listen to this episode now to learn more!
Nov 28, 2024•10 min
In this episode of the GovCon Giants podcast, we have Randie Ward of Alchemy Gov, alongside industry heavyweights Ben Brubeck and Matt Abeles from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) organization. Ben, Vice President of Regulatory, Labor, and State Affairs, and Matt, Vice President of Construction Technology and Innovation, share their expertise on the rapidly evolving construction landscape. They delve into the impact of new government regulations, the pressing labor shortages, and cu...
Nov 27, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 241
In this episode, I discuss the importance of small businesses participating in government contracts and events. I also highlighted the significance of the "rule of two" and the changes that the SBA is making to it. Small businesses can shape requirements and benefit themselves by partnering with other companies in their industry rather than competing against them. Lastly, small businesses need to be proactive in participating in these opportunities rather than solely relying on bids and RFPs. Wa...
Nov 26, 2024•8 min
n today's episode, we talk about the challenges small businesses face when trying to enter the government space. There are many programs available to help small businesses, but it can be overwhelming and time-consuming to navigate them all. These programs need to work together more effectively to help small businesses succeed. One of the biggest obstacles small businesses face is understanding the terminology and processes used in government contracting. Programs focused on providing clear and c...
Nov 25, 2024•9 min
In this episode, we discusses the challenges and opportunities in government contracting. While recent reports show increased confidence among companies in government contracting, the reality for small businesses is different. Many small businesses struggle to run and operate their business in this sector and face challenges in qualifying for contracts. It's vital to emphasize the importance of learning from experts and studying the market before jumping in. Also the need for skills in business ...
Nov 24, 2024•10 min
In this episode, we have Corliss “Mama U” Udoema, and she talks about her experiences of working in Japan and Italy. Working overseas was an experience that stretched her to areas she never saw coming. She is a mission-minded veteran supporter and loves to work for the military. She also shared about her experience in Japan, and the surprising experience she had working there. Here's a fun fact: One of the things that she noticed was that when you scheduled a staff meeting for 10, by ten minutes...
Nov 23, 2024•10 min
In this episode, we have Stephanie and the questions she have regarding her niche in the government contracting. We discuss her target market list as she has 9-10 agencies currently. Stephanie also shares about a recent meeting she had with the EPA. This important meeting gave her some contacts to follow up with at other agencies. So how did Stephanie set up this meeting? Tune in to this episode to learn more. Hope you enjoyed this episode of The Daily Wind Up. See you tomorrow....
Nov 22, 2024•4 min
In this episode, we discuss the importance of standing by the truth and being honest with clients, even when delivering bad news. Our guest shares how their small accounting business focuses on providing excellent service to their clients, which has resulted in a loyal client base. We also touched on the importance of working with good people, both in business and personal life, and the benefits of putting out a good product. Your business helps clients with process improvement, standard operati...
Nov 21, 2024•7 min
In this episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast, we welcome back Venus Quates, President and CEO of LaunchTech, to share the incredible developments since her first appearance on episode 108. At that time, LaunchTech was ranked number 66 on the Inc. 5000 list. Venus details the rapid growth her company has experienced, including their relocation to Huntsville, Alabama, and strategic pivots made during the pandemic. The conversation covers the expansion of LaunchTech into federal, state, and commerc...
Nov 20, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 240
In today's episode, I talk about the common belief that organic growth is the way to successfully build a business. This approach may not be feasible for everyone, especially those who have other jobs and commitments. Breaking down the math behind achieving 10,000 hours of practice, which is needed to become an expert in a field, it may take much longer than expected to reach that level. So listen to this episode to know a different approach to business growth, one that involves joint ventures a...
Nov 19, 2024•7 min
In this episode, we discuss the importance of looking at industry-specific examples when evaluating business success. Just because a company is making money does not mean they have the best processes, people, or technology in place. Instead, businesses should be willing to evaluate what will make them the highest profit and allow them to use their resources in the best way. Want to evaluate what was necessary for success? This includes building a brand, building trust, and becoming a trusted aut...
Nov 18, 2024•8 min
In this episode, we discuss the importance of building relationships and connections in business. It's important to emphasize the need to meet people in person and have face-to-face conversations to develop connections that can help you grow your network and engage in more opportunities. We also discuss our personal backgrounds and stories about our experiences along the way. Lastly, we also talk about the importance of having a cost accounting system in place and how it can make a difference in...
Nov 17, 2024•7 min
In today's episode, we have Manish Gorawala, the founder of Tri-Force Consulting Services, Inc. Tune in to this podcast as Manish shares the story behind the name Triforce. He views their company name as representing excellence, integrity and hard work. Now their company specializes in IT systems integration, data analytics, cybersecurity, software testing and IT staffing. He started consulting as an independent consultant after graduating in computer science and later realized that the knowledg...
Nov 16, 2024•9 min
In today'e episode, we discuss the identification of indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) numbers used in government contracts. Want to know how IDIQ numbers are developed? Most agencies use contract writing systems that generate the number, which typically includes the year, the department within the agency, and a random number for the IDIQ. Task orders are then issued against the IDIQ, with the next number in sequence indicating each order. It's important to do market research on pr...
Nov 15, 2024•10 min
In this episode of the GovCon Giants podcast, we welcome Thomas Beil, a seasoned supply chain expert with a rich background in digital transformation at industry leaders like Honeywell and Whirlpool. Now the founder of Perfect Planner, a cutting-edge supply chain tech firm, Thomas dives deep into the critical pillars of supply chain success: velocity, visibility, and variability. He reveals how mastering these elements can protect businesses from disruptions and boost resilience, especially in t...
Nov 14, 2024•18 min
In this episode of the Govcon Giants Podcast, we welcome Erica Dobbs, the dynamic CEO of Dobbs Defense Solutions. Erica's story is one of resilience and determination. She began her journey while still working her traditional 9-to-5 job, with a dream of one day running her own business. Today, she leads a multimillion-dollar company specializing in cybersecurity and IT services for the Department of Defense. Erica shares her path from being an employee to becoming a successful entrepreneur, deta...
Nov 13, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 239
In today's special episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast , Eric introduces listeners to John Cook, CEO of Strategic Growth Advisors, a prominent figure in the world of federal contracting. With over 20 years of experience in the D.C. area, John has developed a reputation for guiding small businesses to significant growth through proven strategies that double revenues and secure multimillion-dollar contracts. His insights come from a deep well of experience in both corporate and small business env...
Nov 12, 2024•29 min
In this special episode of the Govcon Giants Podcast , Eric sits down with Jalen Uboh, an inspiring government contractor whose journey epitomizes resilience and adaptability. Jalen shares his path from college hustles to entrepreneurial success, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of his career. Initially delving into the world of drop shipping, Jalen transitioned into the healthcare sector before finding his niche in federal contracting. Astonishingly, within just eight months, ...
Nov 11, 2024•38 min
In this episode, we have Marsha Lindquist, a Strategic Pricing Expert. Eric and Marsha talks about the world of government contracting and pricing. With her vast experience in this field and working in various positions such as cost engineer, director of contracts and pricing, and corporate controller. There is so much to learn from her experiences and knowledge. The government usually sees pricing in a cost plus approach, which is different from the commercial way of thinking. They have its own...
Nov 10, 2024•11 min
In this episode, uncover the keys to excelling in government contracting with guidance from an industry powerhouse, Travis Mack, generating over $100M in annual revenue. This exclusive interview delves into finding and winning government contracts, offering expert tips on navigating the federal marketplace and growing your business through mergers and acquisitions. Whether you're new to government contracting or aiming to scale, this discussion delivers actionable strategies on building winning ...
Nov 09, 2024•26 min
In today's episode, Lynwood Owens talks about the difficulties his business faced after obtaining an 8(a) status in 2018. The stakeholders considered his company as a risk since they were not a prime contractor, and had no capital and fast forms to show for it. However, in March 2019, he won his first prime contract as a product award, which started a chain of prime contracts for his company. He now faces the challenge of sustaining his business as the period of performance for some contracts is...
Nov 08, 2024•8 min
In this episode, I talk about the contracting process for acquisitions in the federal government and its importance. I explained the process including a planning phase, market research phase, and others. The government's market research phase can be identified by the publication of sources sought notices and RFIs. It's important to emphasize the importance of understanding the process and knowing the phase in order to correctly interpret and respond to opportunities for work with the government....
Nov 07, 2024•9 min
In this episode of the Govcon Giants podcast, we have Alice Williams, a seasoned expert in federal contracting with nearly four decades of experience. Alice has played a pivotal role in some of the nation’s most critical operations, including the recovery of the Pentagon after 9/11. She brings a wealth of knowledge as a government contracting mentor, consultant, and expert, and shares her incredible journey from a 16-year-old civil servant to an executive in the Department of Defense. Along the ...
Nov 06, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 238
