Fed Gov Today
Veteran host Francis Rose gives Federal government decision-makers news and information about management, workforce, IT, and acquisition, to help those leaders do their jobs better.
AI Modernization, Critical Infrastructure Security, and Enterprise Innovation Across Government
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
How the Navy Is Using 360-Degree Tech to Cut Maintenance Delays and Boost Fleet Readiness
In this episode of Fed Gov Today, Ted Lemieux, Head of the Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering Branch at the Naval Research Laboratory, explains how the Insertable Stalk Inspection System 360 is replacing dangerous, time-consuming tank inspections with immersive 360-degree imaging and advanced analytics. He discusses how the technology helps maintenance planners identify corrosion before ships enter dry dock, reducing unnecessary work, avoiding costly surprises, and improving fleet readiness. Lemieux also shares how commercial innovation and emerging AI capabilities are shaping the next generation of naval inspections.
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How FedRAMP Is Changing Forever: The Cloud Security Mistakes Every Federal Agency Must Avoid
GAO Director of Information Technology and Cybersecurity Dave Hinchman explains why continuous monitoring, strong service level agreements, and clear agency oversight remain essential as cloud adoption accelerates. He discusses lessons from GAO's review of cloud deployments at four federal agencies, what those findings mean for government-wide cybersecurity, and how the evolving FedRAMP program places greater responsibility on agencies to evaluate cloud providers. Hinchman also shares practical steps agencies can take to strengthen cloud security and better protect taxpayer data.
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How AI, Modern Security, and Cross-Agency Partnerships Are Reshaping Federal Missions
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
The Pentagon's AI Arsenal: The Four-Pillar Plan to Transform Defense Technology
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
Mission Forward - Building the Future of Federal Human Capital Management
In conversation with SAP Industry Executive Advisor Travis Hoadley, this episode explores how federal agencies can modernize human capital management to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. Hoadley examines the growing gap between public- and private-sector talent management, the critical role of technology modernization, and the importance of strong collaboration between IT and HR leaders. He also discusses how artificial intelligence is reshaping federal jobs, why workforce planning must evolve beyond outdated frameworks, and how agencies can create a persistent culture of innovation. The conversation highlights the strategies that will separate future-ready agencies from those struggling to...
AI at the Edge, Zero Trust Reimagined, and Telehealth’s Next Leap
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
SOCOM’s AI Race: Autonomous Warfare, Human Performance, and the Innovation Surge Reshaping Defense
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
Inside the Army’s Secret Innovation Engine: How Soldiers Are Rewriting Procurement in Real Time
The Army’s new Joint Innovation Outpost is changing how military capability gets from industry to the battlefield. Colonel Tom Monaghan explains how the JIOP embeds acquisition professionals directly with the 18th Airborne Corps to rapidly test, refine, and scale new technologies based on real-time soldier feedback. From anti-drone systems to modular drone transport cases designed by soldiers themselves, the initiative is streamlining the “last mile” of military innovation. Monaghan details how the Army is cutting through traditional procurement timelines, partnering directly with industry, and creating a model that could expand to every corps headquarters across the service.
Inside the VA’s Bold Plan to Modernize National Cemeteries — and Why Only 18% of Veterans Use Them
VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Sam Brown joins the program to discuss how the National Cemetery Administration is transforming the veteran and family experience through modernization, outreach, and collaboration. Brown explains why customer experience is central to NCA’s mission, the surprising reality that only 18% of eligible veterans choose national cemeteries, and how the VA is working to increase awareness of burial benefits. He also reveals a major modernization effort with Arlington National Cemetery to replace decades-old systems with a shared platform designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and better serve veterans and their families for generations to com...
The Cyber Threat Nobody Sees Coming: Former DISA Director on AI, Mythos & the Future of Digital Warfare
Former DISA Director Lt. Gen. Bob Skinner joins Fed Gov Today to explain why digital forensics is no longer just a post-breach investigative tool—it’s now the frontline of cyber defense. Skinner breaks down how AI-powered platforms like Mythos are changing the cybersecurity landscape, why the line between criminals and nation-state adversaries is disappearing, and what agencies must do to stay ahead of increasingly complex threats. He also shares why the federal government needs more “operational technologists” who understand both mission and technology, and why critical thinking—not just technical skill—will define the next generation of cyber talent
The Pentagon’s Massive AI & Logistics Overhaul Is Already Reshaping the Future of War
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
GSA’s Massive Shake-Up: The Real Reason Federal Acquisition Is Being Rebuilt
The General Services Administration is launching a major restructuring of the Federal Acquisition Service, consolidating acquisition programs into five new portfolios designed to modernize procurement and improve efficiency across government. Former FAS Deputy Commissioner Tom Howder joins Fed Gov Today to explain why GSA is moving from an industry-based model to a product-based approach, what it means for Multiple Award Schedules, GWACs, and assisted acquisition services, and how artificial intelligence and automation fit into the agency’s future. Howder also discusses the uncertain future of TTS, why communication is critical during large reorganizations, and how agencies and vendors could be...
Inside the TSP’s Push to Make Retirement Rollovers Easier
Jim Kaplan, Director of External Affairs at the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, explains how the Thrift Savings Plan is modernizing the rollover experience for federal employees and service members. Kaplan discusses the TSP’s concierge service, which helps participants transfer retirement savings from private-sector accounts into the TSP with personalized support throughout the process. He also shares how the agency is improving participant experience through technology upgrades, strengthening cybersecurity protections, encouraging secure direct deposit setup, and helping younger federal employees take advantage of Roth retirement options. The conversation highlights the TSP’s focus on security, customer service, and maki...
$4 Billion Cloud Bet, AI Coworkers & Award-Winning Bots: Government’s Tech Revolution Is Already Here
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
Inside the Pentagon’s Cyber War Room: Why DC3 Is Racing Against AI-Powered Threats
DC3 CIO Eric Oliver says the Pentagon Cyber Crime Center is in a race to modernize before AI-driven threats outpace traditional defenses. In this episode of Fed Gov Today, Oliver explains how DC3 is transforming aging infrastructure, moving sensitive operations to the cloud, and implementing zero trust security while supporting cyber investigations, counterintelligence, and the defense industrial base. He also discusses how emerging AI tools could dramatically accelerate vulnerability discovery and why autonomous AI systems will create entirely new investigative challenges. Oliver warns DC3 must stay ahead of evolving threats because the organization itself is a prime target for...
Maven Goes Mainstream: The AI System Quietly Transforming How War Gets Decided
Project Maven’s evolution into a full program of record marks a turning point for AI in defense. Former JAIC Director Jack Shanahan and former NGA Director Trey Whitworth break down how Maven Smart System is shifting from an experimental capability to a globally deployed decision-support engine. With stable funding, expanding integration, and potential ties to Joint All-Domain Command and Control, Maven is redefining how commanders reduce complexity and act faster. The conversation explores human-machine collaboration, the rise of AI-driven reasoning, and the future of military decision-making—where agility, accountability, and smarter insights could reshape operations across the batt...
Speed, Signals, and Cyber Survival: Inside the Pentagon’s Race to Outpace Threats
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
AI Won’t Replace Spies—It Will Make Them More Powerful Than Ever
Former CIA case officer Tom Mulligan breaks down why artificial intelligence isn’t replacing human intelligence—but transforming it. From AI “co-workers” assisting analysts to the growing threat of AI-generated deception, Mulligan outlines five critical lessons for the intelligence community. He explains how AI is supercharging surveillance, reshaping tradecraft, and enhancing persuasion, while also making human judgment more valuable than ever. Despite rapid technological advances, Mulligan argues HUMINT remains essential—and may become even more important as AI spreads globally. The future of intelligence isn’t man vs. machine—it’s how humans and AI work together to outthink adversa...
AI, Billions Saved & a Bold Tech Bet: Inside Government’s Biggest Digital Shakeup Yet
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
Mission Forward: AI-Powered Modernization: From Services-Led to Standards-Based
SAP executive advisors Tahera Zamanzada and Brian Laird explore how federal agencies are shifting from legacy, siloed systems to AI-enabled, standards-based architectures. They discuss reducing technical debt, improving interoperability, and leveraging shared services to scale best practices across government. Rather than “big bang” overhauls, they emphasize incremental pilots, high-value use cases, and progress over perfection—especially when integrating AI with imperfect data. The conversation also highlights cultural challenges, workforce readiness, and the growing demand for modern tools. Ultimately, success lies in aligning technology with mission outcomes, fostering collaboration, and building adaptable, data-driven foundations for the future.
VA’s High-Stakes Comeback: Inside the EHR Launch That Could Transform Veteran Care
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com
The Pentagon’s $800 Billion Problem: Why Congress Holds the Key to Defense Innovation
Bill Greenwalt argues the Pentagon’s biggest obstacle isn’t technology—it’s budget rigidity. While civilian agencies enjoy flexible funding, DoD remains stuck in a decades-old PPBE system that limits speed and innovation. Greenwalt explains how Congress must decide whether to modernize or scrap the system entirely, and why new acquisition models like portfolio-based investing can’t succeed without financial agility. The conversation highlights how outdated rules hinder competition with global adversaries and explores real-world examples of flexibility across government. Ultimately, meaningful reform depends on congressional will—and a shift in how defense funding is managed.
Billions on the Line: The Hidden Struggle to Shrink the Federal Government’s Real Estate Empire
The federal government has spent over a decade trying to reduce its massive, underused real estate footprint—but progress has been slow and costly. In this episode, GAO’s Dave Marroni breaks down why disposing of excess federal property remains such a persistent challenge, from funding hurdles to data gaps and lengthy timelines. He explains how new legislation and GSA’s more proactive approach—including private-sector brokers—could accelerate change and save billions in maintenance costs. The key? Better data, clearer performance goals, and smarter strategy. This conversation reveals why managing federal property isn’t just about buildings—it’s about accounta...
OMB’s Power Play: The Memo That Could Finally Fix Federal IT Spending
This episode of Fed Gov Today explores a major OMB memo reshaping how federal CIOs manage IT contracts and spending. Former USDA CIO Gary Washington explains how the guidance reinforces CIO authority, improves transparency, and pushes agencies toward enterprise thinking. The policy requires detailed reporting of contracts, pricing, and approvals, aiming to eliminate silos and standardize procurement data. While challenges remain around compliance and enforcement, the memo signals stronger oversight, better pricing leverage, and a cultural shift toward treating IT as a strategic mission driver across government agencies today. Ultimately it highlights the ongoing evolution of federal technology leadership...
Biofuel Breakthroughs, Billion-Dollar Fraud, and a Federal Real Estate Shakeup
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.
Space Force’s Secret Surge: How 70+ Launches a Year Are Rewriting the Rules of War & Innovation
The Space Force is scaling faster than ever, and Vandenberg Space Force Base is at the center of it all. Colonel James Horne explains how a surge to 70+ launches annually is driven by commercial partnerships, reduced launch costs, and a “second space race” mindset. He breaks down the shift to service-based acquisition, the rise of dual-use innovation, and how automation and AI are transforming operations. From infrastructure overhauls to workforce expansion, the Spaceport of the Future vision is redefining national security space strategy and accelerating America’s ability to compete—and win—in orbit.
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TSP Is Crushing Records: The Surprising Strategy Driving 90% Participation and 11-Second Support
The Thrift Savings Plan is hitting record-breaking milestones, from soaring participation rates to lightning-fast 11-second call response times. Jim Kaplan explains how default enrollment, financial literacy, and a relentless focus on customer service are reshaping retirement outcomes for federal employees and service members. The conversation dives into how managed services transformed support operations, why cybersecurity remains a top priority, and how AI is quietly boosting efficiency behind the scenes. With participation in the Blended Retirement System surpassing expectations, TSP’s success highlights a broader cultural shift toward proactive financial planning and continuous improvement across government programs.
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Data Wars & Digital Speed: How AI, Records, and Rapid Defense Are Rewriting Government Playbooks
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.
Burning Down Cyber Risk: DHS’s AI-Powered Playbook to Outsmart Hackers
Outgoing DHS CISO Hemant Baidwan reflects on the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the urgent shift from compliance-driven security to real-time risk reduction. He highlights how AI is transforming both defense and adversary tactics, making continuous monitoring and automation essential. Baidwan introduces the concept of a Risk Operations Center (ROC), emphasizing visibility, attack path analysis, and actionable intelligence to “burn down” cyber risk to acceptable levels. He also discusses the future of self-healing infrastructure and the cultural changes required across government. The conversation underscores a pivotal moment for federal cybersecurity strategy and innovation.
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AI Rules Could Backfire: Former GSA Leader Warns New Contract Changes May Push Innovators Away
In this episode of Fed Gov Today, former Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Alan Thomas breaks down sweeping proposed changes to GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule, including expanded transactional data reporting and a controversial new AI clause. Thomas explains how broader TDR requirements could add complexity for vendors—especially for services and configurable products—while raising questions about how the government will use the data. He also warns the AI provision, now delayed for further review, could unintentionally stifle innovation and deter new entrants. With industry feedback mounting, the discussion highlights the delicate balance between oversight, modernization, and maintaining a compet...
Fix Your Data, Fix Your AI: The Hidden Key to Smarter Government Tech
This episode of Fed Gov Today features Francis Rose in conversation with federal data expert Kshemendra Paul on why data—not AI—is the real foundation of innovation. They explore how poor data governance fuels AI risks like bias and hallucinations, and how agencies can unlock high-fidelity AI by improving data quality, sharing, and standards. From the President’s Management Agenda to real-world interoperability challenges, Paul explains why shifting from agency silos to ecosystem-driven governance is critical. The discussion highlights how aligning CIOs, CDOs, and data strategies can drive smarter, more efficient government services in the...
AI, Cyber, and the Government’s Race to Move Faster Without Breaking Security
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.
Inside the State Department’s $10B Gamble: How “Evolve” Rewrites Federal Contracting Forever
The State Department’s massive $10 billion Evolve contract is finally live—marking a milestone in federal acquisition. Former Senior Procurement Executive Mike Derrios breaks down the strategy behind bringing contract management in-house, the challenges of handling over 100 proposals, and why perseverance was key to success. He explores whether Evolve could be the last of its kind amid growing pressure for contract consolidation and GSA-led solutions. Plus, insights on the sweeping FAR overhaul and the cultural shift agencies must embrace to truly modernize procurement. This episode unpacks what it takes to transform government contracting at scale—and what comes next.<...
AI Predicts Weather in 60 Seconds, Government CX Data, and the Critical Minerals Race
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.
AI in VA Hospitals Sparks Watchdog Warning: What Veterans Need to Know
The Department of Veterans Affairs is expanding the use of generative AI tools across the Veterans Health Administration, including an ambient AI scribe that automatically documents conversations between doctors and patients. While the technology aims to improve efficiency and reduce administrative burden for clinicians, the VA’s Office of Inspector General is raising an early warning. Inspector General Cheryl Mason explains that the primary concern isn’t the technology itself—but the lack of standardized safeguards and reporting processes to track potential AI errors, including “hallucinations.” Mason joins Fed Gov Today to discuss oversight of emerging AI tools in healthcare...
Why the Military Won’t Trust AI Until It Logs Thousands of Hours
Trust—not technology—may be the biggest barrier to deploying advanced AI on the battlefield. In this episode of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose, Marine Corps Warfighting Lab Science and Technology Director Colonel Kenneth Jones explains how the military is evolving unmanned systems from simple drones into complex networks of sensors, shooters, and autonomous platforms. Jones outlines how Marines aim to control multiple systems from a single interface while reducing cognitive load through AI-driven orchestration. But true adoption depends on experience. Just like early aviation, Jones says thousands of operational hours are needed before operators fully trust autonomous syst...
Inside the Pentagon’s Tech Race: Army’s MOSA Push, AI at the Edge, and the Budget Battle Ahead
The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.
Inside the Navy’s New Warfighting Playbook: CNO on the Culture Shift Reshaping the Fleet
The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Darryl Caudle, is rolling out new fighting instructions designed to reshape how the Navy prepares for combat and delivers naval power around the world. On this episode of Fed Gov Today, Admiral Caudle joins Francis Rose to explain the thinking behind the guidance and why he believes it represents a fundamental paradigm shift for the fleet. Rather than relying on an “all-or-nothing” approach to combat certification, Caudle wants the Navy to tailor naval forces to specific operational problems and deliver the right capability at the right time. He desc...
Why the Military Must Modernize NOW: The AI-Powered ‘Resilience Stack’ Changing National Security
On this episode of Fed Gov Today, Francis Rose speaks with Samdesk Founder and CEO James Neufeld about how the Air Force and other agencies are adapting to a rapidly evolving information landscape. Neufeld explains why modernization and readiness are now inseparable, highlighting the need for a “resilience stack” built around frameworks like OODA and Samdesk’s ADAR model—anticipate, detect, analyze, and resolve. The conversation also explores how artificial intelligence is becoming core infrastructure and why agencies must break complex problems into targeted AI applications to improve decision-making speed and mission success.
