Breaking the Standard
Closing the Communication and Knowledge Gap for the Small Business Government Contracting Industry. One of the biggest challenges industry faces is working in the federal government sphere is communication. Breaking the Standard is committed to using the podcast as a platform to educate, inform, and connect with others in the Small Business Government Contracting Community, both industry and Government.
What You Need to Know About SBIR Phase 3
On this episode, Aubrey sits down with Nicole Tripputi to discuss Phase 3 of the SBIR process.
Listen in as Nicole explains what the SBIR is, what Phase 1 and 2 are, and what is Phase 3 and what is essential to know for small businesses to achieve Phase 3.
Do not miss out on this episode! Listen in and let us know what you think.
Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn
How Businesses' Best Sellers Aren't in Business Development
In this episode, we have Krystn Macomber, CEO and Founder of Summit Strategy with us to discuss how businesses' best sellers aren't in business development. Listen in as Krystn shares how small businesses should be thinking about and approaching growth and who should serve to help drive that within the business.
To connect with Krystn, find here on LinkedIn.
To learn more about Summit Strategy, click here.
Bridging the Gap Between Knowing and Deciding in GovCon
In this episode, we have Judy Bradt back with us to discuss the gap between knowing and deciding in govcon and how to bridge it. Judy shares how to avoid hiding behind research, how to pursue small strategic wins without losing long-term direction, and why real, in-person connection still creates a competitive advantage in an AI-saturated world. If you care about building confidence, credibility, and momentum in complex systems, you'll get a lot out of this one.
Misuse of Generative AI (GenAI) in Reporting a Protest
On this episode, we have David Timm with us to discuss the misuse of Generative AI (GenAI) in reporting a protest. David, a bid protest attorney, walks us through how GenAI is impacting and changing the protest process, what issues arise when companies use GenAI and things to consider when using GenAI for a bid protest. Do not miss this conversation.
To connect with David, find him on LinkedIn
Creating a Common Language Across GovCon: Government, Industry and Academia
In this episode, we have Mike Derrios with us, the new Executive Director of the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting within the Costello College of Business at George Mason University. Mike discusses with us the concept to create a common culture within GovCon across Government, Industry and Academia and the benefits associated.
To connect with Mike, find him on LinkedIn.
Learn more about the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting
All things CMMC and What's Involved
On this episode, we have Zach Walker with us to discuss all things CMMC. Zach walks us through what CMMC is, the process to be certified and approved, any costs associated and what the audit process looks like. Do not miss out on this conversation as CMMC will be a main topic of conversation for a long time to come!
To connect with Zach, find him on LinkedIn
To learn more about Zach's company and how they help with CMMC compliance, click here
Changes from the FAR Overhaul: What Small Businessess Need to Pay Attention To
In this episode, we have Sam Le with us to discuss the recent changes as a result of the FAR Overhaul and the impact to small businesses. Sam walks us through what he believes small businesses should pay particular attention to and what he considers major changes. Don't miss out on this episode!
To connect with Sam, find him on LinkedIn.
Check out Sam's podcast and blog mentioned as well at GovConIntelligence.com.
Rewinding the GovCon Story: Was It Love at First Sight?
In this episode, we have Neil McDonnell with us to discuss his journey through the GovCon space. Neil shares his introduction to GovCon, if it was love at first sight and how he started the GovConChamber. Don't miss out on this great conversation full of insights for small businesses.
To connect with Neil find him on LinkedIn.
Where & How Small Businesses Can Find Opportunities
On this episode, we have guest Tracy Marcinowski with us to discuss where small businesses can find opportunities in GovCon. Tracy offers suggestions on how small businesses can determine where within the industry they belong, and steps to take to continue generate and create opportunities.
To connect with Tracy, find her on LinkedIn.
Elevating Through Empathy: Connecting Through the Human Lens
In this episode, we have Mike Nachshen with us to discuss elevating through empathy and ways that small business can approach preparing a proposal to appeal to the evaluators who will be reviewing the proposal on the receiving end. Mike walks us through what the empathetic lens is, what it can offer for small businesses and steps to take for this process. All of which offer a new approach for small businesses to use when preparing and submitting proposals.
To connect with Mike, find him on LinkedIn
Different Ways Small Businesses Can Learn Within the World of GovCon
On this episode, we have Michelle Currier, Chief Learning Officer of the National Contract Management Association with us to discuss different ways small businesses can learn within GovCon. Michelle offers different places small businesses can look to learn and educate themselves, who to ask, dos and don'ts when it comes to education and a few of her favorite stories and experiences.
To connect with Michelle find her on LinkedIn.
Using Score Cards and Self Scoring: What to Know
On this episode, we have Lauren Leulu, of Leulu & Co. with us to discuss all things scorecards!
Lauren walks us through what scorecards are, how self scoring works, pros and cons to the process and how using scorecards can help to increase success across the board.
To connect with Lauren, find her on LinkedIn.
Why Small Business Specialists Need to Be Your BFF
On this episode, we have Small Business Specialist Reggie Mitchell from the Environmental Protection Agency with us! Reggie walks us through what a small business specialist does, what actions small businesses can take to connect with him, and why you need to be his best friend (if you're a small business). Do not miss out on hearing about Reggie's passion to support, educate and propel this industry.
To connect with Reggie, find him on LinkedIn
The Power of Creating Community and Winning within NCMA
On this episode, we have Kraig Conrad, CEO of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA), to discuss the ways the GovCon community can win. The opportunities through training, events, outreach, networking and more offer a wide range for all businesses, especially small businesses. Listen in to learn more about what NCMA can offer the GovCon community!
To connect with Kraig, find him on LinkedIn.
To learn more about NCMA, click here.
Creating Your Roadmap as a Small Business and Defining your North Star
In this episode, we have Krystn Macomber with us to discuss creating your roadmap as a small business and defining your North Star. Krystn walks us through what a roadmap is, how to create and refine it and why it matters in their mission. Krystn also explains how small businesses can identify what their North Star is while sharing about her own for additional reference.
To connect with Krystn, find her on LinkedIn
Answering Questions from Small Businesses About All Things AI: What to Consider before Drinking the Kool Aid
In this episode, we have Akash Mandavilli with us to discuss questions and answers from small businesses surrounding AI and what to consider before using it. Akash is the founder of GovEagle, a program used in the GovCon space that walks us through what small businesses should ask themselves before working with AI, using AI with GovCon requirements and looking into the future.
To connect with Akash, find him on LinkedIn.
To learn more about GovEagle, click here.
How Data Can Help Small Businesses and Make the Difference
In this episode, we have Kris Saling with us, a Colonel in the United States Army dedicated to driving data analytics and talent management. Kris walks us through how data can make a huge difference for small businesses at any level and why they should implement different analytics and management now. Listen in now!
To connect with Kris, find her on LinkedIn
Learn more about Kris and her publishings here
Using Oral Presentations to Showcase Experience: A Game Changer for Small Businesses
In this episode, we have Lisa Shea Mundt with us to discuss oral presentations. Lisa walks us through what oral presentations are, the role they can play in proposal responses and how they can truly showcase a small businesses' experience in ways a written proposal cannot.
To connect with Lisa, find her on LinkedIn
Reviewing the Last Year as COO and Looking Ahead: Changing the Narrative in GovCon
On this episode, we have Alexa Tsui back with us to reflect on her year as Chief Operating Officer at G2X and looking ahead on changing the narrative within GovCon to GovCom. Alexa shares her views on what industry has done well and where industry can continue to improve. Alexa also shares her insight on connection and how it all comes back to people connecting with people. Great conversation - do not miss out!
To connect with Alexa, find her on LinkedIn
Small Businesses and Understanding the Market: Asking the Right Questions
On this episode, we sat down with Stephanie Geiger to discuss small businesses understanding the market. Stephanie walks us through small businesses asking the questions to ensure they are planning strategically and smartly investing their resources. Do not miss this episode.
To connect with Stephanie, find her on LinkedIn
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Hearing it straight from a Banker: What small businesses need to be bankable
On this episode, we have Dan Hampton with us from the Bank of Clarke to discuss what small businesses need to be bankable. Dan walks us through what it means to be bankable, what small businesses need to know, actions they need to take, and keeping sight of their core business values and never losing sight of their vision. Do not miss out on this insightful conversation.
To connect with Dan, find him on LinkedIn.
To sign up for the Guest List, click here.
Defining Fair & Reasonable Pricing from Both Sides of GovCon
In this episode, we have Troy Francis and Jon Barker with us to discuss fair and reasonable pricing. With both sides of GovCon represented (Government and Industry), listen in as fair and reasonable pricing is viewed, defined and evaluated from both sides. Don't miss out on this unique conversation that offers lots of valuable information that small businesses can apply immediately!
To connect with Troy, find him on LinkedIn
To connect with Jon, find him on LinkedIn
Join the Guest List to stay in the know!
Understanding the Mission and Meeting Potential Customers
In this episode, we have Kristina Tanasichuk with us from the Government Technology and Services Coalition to talk about understanding the mission and meeting a potential customer. Kristina walks us through what small businesses need to be doing right now, what to consider and how vital that is to connect and meet new customers in the GovCon space.
To connect with Kristina, find her on LinkedIn
To learn more about GTSC, go to their site here
All About Claims Within the World of GovCon
On this episode, we sit down with Ed DeLisle to discuss everything related to claims within the world of GovCon. Ed walks us through what a claim is, why and when it would be submitted in the procurement process, and what small businesses should consider before submitting a claim. Make sure to listen in before you process or file a claim!
To connect with Ed, find him here on LinkedIn
If you haven't joined the Guest List make sure you do to stay up to date with emails, episodes and more!
Areas of Customer Experience Where Agencies Should Focus their Strategic Investments in 2025
In this episode, we have Brian Chidester with us to discuss six areas of customer experience where Agencies should focus their strategic investments in 2025. Listen in as Brian walks us through what is customer experience, the areas agencies should focus on, and the difference it will make for industry in the GovCon space.
Connect with Brian on LinkedIn
Listen to the Government Huddle Podcast here
Sign up for the Guest List for more information
Driving Solutions Through Creating Tribes
In this episode, we have Art Trevethan with us to discuss driving solutions and creating tribes. Communities like Tribe can make such a difference for businesses, especially small. Listen in as Art walks through Tribe and the different opportunities it offers.
Connect with Art on LinkedIn
Join the Guest List and stay in the loop for GovCon topics
Utilizing SBIRs and Why Small Businesses Need to Know Them
In this episode, we have Nikhil Shenoy with us to discuss Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and the elements of it. Listen as Nikhil shares his experience with SBIRs, what the process looks like through Phases I, II and III and what is available for small businesses. Do not miss out on this awesome episode!
To connect with Nikhil, find him on LinkedIn
Have you joined the Guest List? If not, make sure to so you can receive information about episodes, GovCon insights and more!
How Small Businesses Can Use Sharepoint to Their Advantage
In this episode, we have Therman Trotman with talk about all things Sharepoint and how small businesses should be using Sharepoint to their advantage. Therman walks us through how Sharepoint can help streamline processes, cut down on wasted time, and even save lots and lots of headaches and grief. Do not miss out on listening to this episode.
Connect with Therman on LinkedIn
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What People Need to Know Before Getting to the RFP
In this episode, we have Judy Bradt with us to discuss what small businesses should know when it comes to everything that happens before even getting to the RFP. Judy walks us through where small businesses should start, why is it important for small business to engage prior to a requirement or RFP coming out and the difference it could make for small businesses. Don't miss out on a great conversation.
To connect with Judy, find her here on LinkedIn
Bidding Opportunities and the Risks Involved with Building a Pipeline and Bidding
In this episode, we have Laura Bennett with us to discuss the bidding process and what goes into that process especially when it comes to risk, building a pipeline and more. Don't miss out on this conversation as it offers a lot of great information!
To connect with Laura, find her on LinkedIn
Subscribe to the Guest List and get updates on the show as well as different topics, ideas and information.
Getting Across the Finish Line and the Role AI Can Play
In this episode, we have Alexander Cohen with us from GovPro AI to discuss how AI can assist small businesses within the GovCon process. Whether it's reviewing and responding to an RFP or a compliance check, AI can play a huge role in helping small businesses reach the finish line.
Connect with Alex on LinkedIn
Learn more about GovPro AI here
Joint Ventures and the Benefits They Offer
In this episode, we have special guest Jerry Miles with us to discuss joint ventures and the benefits they offer. Joint ventures can be beneficial but also are considered risky. Jerry walks us through the benefits for businesses, the risks, and the steps businesses need to follow to reap the benefits of a joint venture.
To connect with Jerry, find him on LinkedIn
Black Hat Reviews and the Magic They Provide
On this episode, we have Brian Lindholm with us to discuss Black Hat reviews and the magic they provide. Brian explains the process behind the Black Hat review, what is involved and the value it provides for businesses preparing in the business development and capture process. You do not want to miss what this episode!
To connect with Brian find him on LinkedIn
What Small Businesses Should Consider and Unpack Before Using AI
In this episode, we have Rebecca Link with us to discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) and what small businesses should consider before using it. Rebecca is not only an advocate for AI, but also an avid user so she explains why it is beneficial to really think through purchasing, using or working with AI for a small businesses.
To connect with Rebecca, find her on LinkedIn
Breaking into GovCon from a DCAA Perspective and What Small Businesses Need to Know
On this episode, we sit down with Katelyn Rigle from Defense Contract Audit Agency to discuss breaking into GovCon from a DCAA perspective and what small businesses need to know.
Katelyn goes over a lot of information regarding audits that are really essential for all businesses to know about when doing business with the Government. Don't miss out on this vital information.
To connect with Katelyn, find her on LinkedIn
To see the slides referenced please email for a copy.
IT Financial Management: What Is It and Why Should Small Businesses Should Know About It
In this episode, we have Laura Mills with us to discuss IT Financial Management. Laura walks us through what IT Financial Management is (Laura classifies it as Total Business Management and FinOps) and what small businesses should know about it and the value it provides. Don't miss out on this episode to learn more.
Trends in GovCon: Past, Present and Future
On this episode, we have Guy Timberlake with us to discuss the trends seen in GovCon. Guy shares with us his thoughts about the GovCon industry and what might be missing to make a difference for the future. Guy also shares with us his thoughts on: trends that worked, trends that didn't, possible failures and what trends might make a reappearance in the future.
To connect with Guy find him on LinkedIn
To learn more about the American Small Business Coalition (The ABSC) click here
Interpreting the Data: What Small Businesses Can Use to Their Advantage
In this episode, we have Jaime Gracia with us to discuss the data reported (for this discussion - purchasing) by Government in GovCon. Jaime walks us through the ways that the data is currently underutilized and ways that small businesses can use the data to their advantage. Do not miss out on this conversation and great tips to apply immediately.
Connect with Jaime on LinkedIn
Overcoming Compliance Hurdles & What Can Be Done to Remove Them
In this episode, we have Brian Chidester with us to discuss overcoming hurdles when it comes to compliance and what can be done to remove them moving forward. Brian walks us through different hurdles that small businesses should be on the lookout for and how these hurdles can impact potential business in the future. Don't miss out on Brian's enthusiasm and insight!
To connect with Brian, find him on LinkedIn
Check out the Government Huddle Podcast here
What is Under the Contract Hood and to Not Be Afraid
In this episode, we have Dolores Kuschina - Messina with us to discuss what is under the contract hood. Many times, viewing everything under the hood can be extremely overwhelming and scary. Do not fear! Dolores walks us through things to consider, top actions to take and breaks down what the focus should be. Make sure to listen and let us know your thoughts.
Connect with Dolores on LinkedIn
Learn more about REXOTA here
